Review by Jon Donnis
Songs of Conquest is a beautifully crafted tribute to classic 90s turn-based strategy games, particularly the much-loved Heroes of Might and Magic III, and it's clear that Lavapotion poured their heart into making this game both an homage and a fresh experience. At its core, Songs of Conquest combines strategic kingdom management with tactical turn-based combat, set against a vibrant, nostalgic fantasy world. It's a genre blend that feels like a rewarding throwback, yet also delivers with enough modern touches to feel relevant and immersive.
Players are introduced to four distinct factions, each with its own flavour and tactical nuances. These factions aren't just reskins; they're balanced with great care, encouraging players to try multiple playthroughs to appreciate the unique abilities and strategies of each. As the rulers of these factions, players command Wielders, powerful sorcerers who harness a blend of might and magic to steer the fate of their kingdoms. These Wielders aren't simply token heroes but come with rich backstories and unique abilities that add a nice layer of tactical depth. Building up your Wielders and strategising their strengths with carefully chosen units is addictive, tapping into that nostalgic compulsion to level up, manage resources, and explore new lands.
Lavapotion's decision to weave in pixel art with 3D environments and volumetric lighting pays off impressively. The visuals are both striking and nostalgic, bringing an old-school style into the modern day. The intricate 2D pixel art is dazzling, and the game shines with vibrant landscapes, enchanting lighting effects, and detailed animations. The way that the visuals complement the combat scenes and map exploration enhances the experience and makes the player feel genuinely immersed in a magical world. It's rare to find a game that bridges past and present aesthetics so seamlessly, and Songs of Conquest nails this aspect.
The gameplay itself is engaging, with each turn requiring thoughtful consideration. Building structures, recruiting Wielders, and upgrading units all demand careful planning and resource management, which in turn makes the battles feel meaningful and earned. The tactical combat skirmishes are satisfyingly challenging, requiring the player to be aware of each unit's positioning and abilities, rather than just throwing them at the enemy. The combat system has enough depth to keep players on their toes without feeling overly complex or inaccessible. The thrill of testing different combinations of units and abilities to see how they work against different factions is one of the most satisfying aspects of the game.
Songs of Conquest also deserves praise for its original score, which adds to the game's nostalgic yet immersive atmosphere. The music is wonderfully composed, giving each region and battle an emotional resonance. The soundtrack complements the visuals beautifully, making each adventure feel grand and timeless. You get a sense that Lavapotion has crafted each detail to elicit a specific mood, which amplifies the overall experience of the game.
For all its charm, however, Songs of Conquest might feel a bit too familiar to players looking for something truly groundbreaking. Its roots in Heroes of Might and Magic III are so evident that some players might see it as a mere modernisation rather than a true evolution. Yet, one could argue that Lavapotion's respect for the genre's foundations isn't a flaw at all but rather a testament to the timelessness of classic gameplay mechanics. Songs of Conquest doesn't try to reinvent the wheel, but it does make it shine and roll smoothly for modern players, which is a feat in itself.
Another highlight is the extensive content available, including robust support for community-generated maps and mods, which hints at a dedicated player base that will likely keep the game alive for years. It's refreshing to see a game in this genre acknowledge the importance of community involvement, and Lavapotion has made it easy for players to share and create their own campaigns, maps, and challenges. This focus on player-driven content gives Songs of Conquest a potentially long lifespan and ensures that there will always be something new for dedicated fans to return to.
Songs of Conquest is a love letter to turn-based strategy fans, particularly those who hold a soft spot for the golden era of 90s games. With its nostalgic visuals, captivating music, and rewarding gameplay mechanics, it proves that this genre still has so much to offer. While it may not introduce dramatic innovations, it's an enchanting experience that balances the old with the new in a way that feels respectful and fresh. Songs of Conquest is a stellar game for anyone who longs for the satisfying, strategic depth of classic fantasy adventures. I'd confidently score it 8.5 out of 10, with high marks for its art, music, and ability to evoke the magic of a beloved genre without diluting its essence.
Out Now
Also out now on Xbox and PS5
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