This game is BRUTAL - what am I doing wrong?

[NightMoor]

Thanks for the advice guys - and yes, I meant to say I am a Warrior. I think getting that Rage spirit has got to be my next step. I've been dillydallying around when I probably should have gone for it right away.

I think my second problem is that I went into Arlania right after clearing Greenwort, which by your accounts seems to be skipping the next easiest place (Verlon Forest). I've already cleared the above ground in Arlania but I'm going to head to Verlon to see if it's a bit more up to my level. This game could definitely use a marker or a "Min. Level X recommended to enter" message before certain areas.

I've noticed the combat system allows for a lot more complexity and strategy than HOMM - for instance you can move a few squares and still set up a defense, or wait and do your attack later even after moving. Very cool, I have to get out of my HOMM mindset and start to take advantage of these new possibilities.

[Stepsongrapes]

Originally Posted by NightMoor

This game could definitely use a marker or a "Min. Level X recommended to enter" message before certain areas.

The game does have it- in the form of the messages you get when hovering over enemy stacks. Unless you're a very experienced player with clear tactics in mind, don't take on challenging stacks.

You'll need to get in the habit of probing for best "path" to minimize losses. Throughout the game, areas will open up before you may be fully ready. Even the early game requires a bit of back-and-forth between the areas, as even the easiest area will have one or two fights that you have to reserve until you're stronger.

As you get better at the game, you may find that you tackle things in a different order than you did in a first play through, because you're actually better at the tactical part of the game and can take on tougher challenges.

So use the challenge rating messages and avoid battles that cost you too many losses. Barrelling ahead and trying to sweep entire areas in one pass is a sure way of losing.

[NightMoor]

Hi guys, just a quick update - you were so right: Verlon Forest is a cakewalk and the "tougher" bosses are about on par with the basic fights I was getting in the other zone.

I've also picked up the rage box but still have to bring it back to the king - once I do that does it show up in my spellbook to use a Spirit?

On a side note, I also tried starting out a Mage recently and it seems so much easier to just nuke everything with fireballs and have enemies give you back mana when they hit your guys via Magic Spring. I may have to give it another go with the Mage!

[Elwin]

No,rage is not a spell. Its something different.As a warrior u should go directly for it at start.Once u get it u can talk to the spirits. They dont serve as soon as you get it. First u must do something for them.The easiest is sleem because u must bring him some poison creature and feed him. 40 poisonous spiders is enough. Second one is Zerock u must win a fight to get him. Next 2 will be available later in game, in dwarf land

On easy and normal if u go on high int and mana offensive mage you dont really need an army , you will win everything with spells.Either fire rain nukes or demon portal with one invisible unit.

[Vilk]

Originally Posted by Stepsongrapes

The game does have it- in the form of the messages you get when hovering over enemy stacks. Unless you're a very experienced player with clear tactics in mind, don't take on challenging stacks.

To manage that better I feel a good way is to learn soon the scouting skill. Sure the game provides a global difficulty information but with this skill you can temper it with more information.