Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes Review for Nintendo DS

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The battles begin with two armies positioning themselves in random formation, which can be strategically set by a player to inflict maximum damage on its opponents. The gamer has to decide the best hero choices, for the battles based on the formations and approach of the enemy team. Unfortunately, players will not have any idea about the opposing faction’s strength and weaknesses. The strengths and weaknesses of the enemy can only be fully understood after few turns of game play. Different factions (alignments) such as Haven, Sylvan, Inferno, Academy and Necropolis have their own limitations and powers and it is up to the player to decide which one’s the best faction for competitive, strategic battles.

Besides immersive combat, Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes has several story-driven and optional quests that seems more like extras in the game since Clash of Heroes is more battle-centric. The excellent treasure-hunting mini quests in the massive campaign mode render Clash of Heroes as one of the lengthier RPGs to date. Equally interesting and immersive is the wireless local multiplayer battles that can be played with friends to test different strategies and combinations. The exclusion of an online mode certainly mars the interesting battle, but the 30+ hour lengthy campaign mode compensates this disadvantage.

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While few won’t like the kiddy looks of the game, most gamers will certainly fall in love with the cute characters and lovely ambience. The variety in background landscapes won’t bore players who love to play for hours.

The music in Might & Magic: Clash of Heroes is excellently composed and executed. Gamers well-versed with the graphics and sounds of old-school RPGs like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger will feel transported to the same era. Of course, the graphics look more polished, but there’s that deft touch or old school JRPG that guarantees endless hours of entertainment.

Might and Magic: Clash of Heroes features an innovative combat system and a lengthy, addictive gameplay that certainly excels in all aspects. The rich storyline, couple with exciting side quests, bounty hunting and puzzle battle challenges makes it a complete RPG package for gamers.