Unfrozen Studio, under the careful guidance of Ubisoft, has finally launched the closed testing of its new game — Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era. This is a prequel that promises to take us back to the origins of the beloved franchise, and fans around the world are already in anticipation. Let's break down what awaits us and how this testing is going.
Closed testing of the "Arena" mode began on March 17, 2025, and will last until March 28. Yes, right now, the chosen lucky ones are already exploring the world of Enroth and fighting on virtual battlefields.
Alas, not everyone could get into the test — the number of places was limited, and applications were accepted through Steam from the beginning of March. If you managed to submit a request and received the coveted letter with access, congratulations! If not, don't be discouraged, because the early access release is just around the corner, namely in the second quarter of 2025.
This is not just another installment in the series, but an attempt to return to the roots, inspired by the classic Heroes I and II, but with a modern take on gameplay and graphics. The game is set on the continent of Jadame, which was previously only mentioned in the Heroes universe. You will find familiar turn-based battles, city building, and army gathering, but with new factions and mechanics. At the start of testing, the developers decided to show the "Arena" mode — a dynamic format for multiplayer duels, which already hints at the e-sports potential of the project. Six factions, including the Temple, Necropolis, and the mysterious Hive, are ready to challenge your tactical skills.
Unfrozen didn't skimp on content for the test: in addition to the gameplay, they released a fresh trailer that demonstrates a vibrant animated style and epic battles. Judging by everything, we are waiting not only for nostalgia, but also for something really fresh.
Testing is not only an opportunity to play before others, but also a chance to influence development. Unfrozen is actively collecting feedback to bring Olden Era to perfection by the release. In the meantime, while we are waiting for early access (April-June 2025), we can only guess what other surprises the developers have in store. Personally, I hope for a deep single-player campaign and a powerful map editor — judging by the promises, they will be there.
And yet, a few doubts remain. Closed beta is, of course, an important stage of development. Developers will be able to gather valuable feedback, identify bugs and balance flaws. Theoretically. But in practice? Let's remember how many times we have seen promising projects at the beta testing stage look not so rosy, and by the release they could not justify the hopes placed on them.
Early access to Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era in 2025... I wonder, is this a chance for fans or a risk for the game itself? It seems cool to be one of the first to check out the novelty, to support the developers. But won't it turn out that we just pay for a "raw" product, which then won't be brought to mind? After all, King's Bounty II and Songs of Conquest also came out in early access, and what was the result? Not particularly impressive. Although, Unfrozen seems to be experienced guys, and Ubisoft is helping them. But anything happens, remember the same Heroes VII... So, is it worth taking a risk and waiting for a miracle, or is it better to wait until others play and tell you what's what? Or maybe this is the last chance for the series? Ugh, now you have to think...