Hero's Hour

When low key pixel art graphics conceal a brilliant strategy game! Adopting classic Heroes of Might and Magic mechanics with real time combat, this game combines turn-based and quickfire action. Explore dynamic maps, do battle with enemies, and discover endless unique factions. A truly addictive strategy experience.

Reign over a strategic kingdom whose pixel art graphics bely some formidable gameplay! Explore procedurally generated maps, build your empire, and establish your rule in this heir to Heroes of Might and Magic with a twist: the battles are all in real time! Your units throw themselves into battle as if their lives depend on it (as, indeed, they do). You'll be playing as the strategic overlord, casting spells that influence the flow of battle. Beneath its low key pixels, Hero's Hour is packed with factions, heroes, and unique maps, each with their own series of challenges and funny moments... The gameplay is a concoction of strategy and chaos.

Each game begins with you building your castle, the central bastion of your budding empire. The turn-based mode gives you some respite so that you can organise your kingdom, while the real-time battles demand reactions that are swift and true. What makes this game really stand out are the 11 unique factions, from sirens aboard their ships to undead hordes, each with their own special abilities and combat styles. The maps are freshly generated for each game, so you'll never be on the same battlefield twice. As for the heroes, they will level up and gain new abilities... if, that is, you can keep them alive.

We liked the faster sessions that still retain the ability for enemies to rise up without warning on any turn. The varied factions and heroes with their unique abilities encourage you to develop creative strategies, but even the best laid plans can unravel when faced with completely unexpected events.

Our favourite part? The soundtrack is a real treat, adding an epic touch to every battle, even as your plans crumble to dust. As for the pixel art graphics, it has an old school charm that might seem laughable to fans of modern graphics, but it has to be sad that it provides an unexpected sense of immersion.

Our tip to help you on your way? Learn to leverage your faction's unique playstyle to get off to a good start. If, for example, like me, you are playing as the maritime Tide faction, you should start building your ships straight away. It will enable you to control the seas and get your hands on resources that other factions can't reach. It's great to let the landlubbing factions slug it out while you're off peacefully exploring the seas.

Who will like this game? Hero's Hour is a real gem for strategy fans and anyone feeling nostalgic for Heroes of Might and Magic. Its simple mechanics and blend of turn-based and real time gameplay are a breath of fresh air to the genre.

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