Etherlords
Release Date: November 20, 2001
Strategy, fantasy, turn-based, card games, multiplayer, singleplayer, internet, LAN
Steam
Unusual turquoise in which elements of strategy, cRPG and cards were combined. The game is divided into two main parts: the first strategic one, in which we move troops all over the map, discover new territories and manage castles, and the second part, the so-called battle, where we directly command the actions of our troops and heroes in combat.
Etherlords is a turn-based strategy with cRPG elements that somewhat resembles the legendary Heroes of Might & Magic series, although with modern 3D graphics. It takes us to the fantasy world of Ether, where four races (each with different traits, environment, culture and fighting style) fight one another. In the game, we may assume control over one of them and take care of its development to ensure victory.
There are lots of challenges ahead of us, including tough battles, countless diplomatic games, proper managing of our resources and many other responsibilities. Everything is woven into an enthralling story. The gameplay is divided into two primary parts: first is the strategic one, where we move our armies on the entire map, discover new lands and manage our castles, while the second one involves battles, in which we directly command our armies and heroes on the battlefield.
- Two huge military campaigns.
- Over 300 magic spells with each race having their own set.
- 64 heroes, all having individual fighting style and special abilities.
- Expansive diplomacy system that allows for forming long-time alliances.
- Over 120 types of monsters to summon.
- Multiplayer mode via LAN or the Internet.
Last updated on August 14, 2015
Videos and Screens
The main pros of the game
- Unique Gameplay: The game combines elements of turn-based strategy and collectible card games, likened to a mix of *Heroes of Might and Magic* (HoMM) and *Magic: The Gathering* (MTG).
- Challenging Difficulty: Many players appreciate the game's difficulty, which requires strategic thinking and planning.
- Engaging Combat System: The card combat mechanics are noted to be entertaining and allow for various deck-building strategies.
- Nostalgic Value: For many players, Etherlords holds a special place as a classic game from their childhood, providing a sense of nostalgia.
- Variety of Races: Each race has unique abilities and card lineups, adding depth to gameplay.
- Long Campaign: The game offers a lengthy campaign that can provide many hours of gameplay.
The main cons of the game
- Technical Issues: A significant number of reviews mention constant crashes, especially on modern operating systems like Windows 10, making the game nearly unplayable for many users.
- Outdated Graphics: While some find the graphics charming, others consider them outdated and lacking polish compared to modern games.
- Slow Combat Pace: Battles can be lengthy, and some players find the animations and mechanics tedious.
- Poor Documentation: The game lacks a tutorial or sufficient in-game instructions, which can lead to confusion, particularly for new players.
- Limited Progression: Players cannot upgrade their heroes or decks between missions, which can make the campaign feel less rewarding.
The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users
- Modern Compatibility: Many users express a desire for better support and updates for modern systems to fix crashing issues.
- Improved User Interface: Suggestions include a more intuitive UI and the ability to adjust settings like resolution more easily.
- Enhanced RPG Elements: Users noted the lack of character progression and narrative depth, wishing for more dialogues and story elements between missions.
- Multiplayer Functionality: The multiplayer aspect is considered dead, leaving players without an option for competitive play.
- Better Campaign Design: Some reviewers pointed out that the campaign feels more like a series of puzzles rather than a cohesive story, with some missions being overly difficult or confusing.
Summary
- Overall, while Etherlords has its strengths in gameplay mechanics and nostalgic value, the technical issues and outdated design significantly detract from the experience for many players.
Summary generated on:
GAMERS Score
Average score from 355 votes.
Etherlords Summary
Platforms:
PC Windows
Developer: Nival
Publisher: Fishtank Interactive
Age restrictions: 12+
Etherlords System Requirements
PC / Windows
Recommended: Pentium III 450MHz, 128MB RAM, graphic card
This Game Combined Features of Heroes and Magic the Gathering. Etherlords Had No Mercy for Newcomers
At a time when the Heroes of Might and Magic series was still at its peak, the Nival team took on a seemingly impossible task and launched an assault on the territory it had seized. Etherlords drew handfuls from the legacy of the iconic series, but also introduced ideas of its own.
video games
Christian Pieniazek
July 2, 2024