Songs of Conquest is a love letter to fans of Heroes of Might and Magic 3, while also bringing in fresh mechanics and a unique aesthetic. If you’re new to the game, this guide will help you avoid common pitfalls and understand the key mechanics that set Songs of Conquest apart.

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1. Don’t Play It Like HoMM 3

While Songs of Conquest draws inspiration from Heroes of Might and Magic 3, it introduces new mechanics that change how you should approach gameplay. Treating it like a direct replica will set you up for failure. Instead, embrace its unique systems like Wielders, unit stacking limits, and essence-based spellcasting.

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2. Tweak Your Settings for Comfort

Before starting, visit the Options Menu to adjust gameplay settings. Key settings include:

• Show Wielder Movement Range: Helps plan movement better.
• Auto-Equip Stronger Artifacts: Automatically equips the best items.
• Zoom Camera in Menus: Can be disabled if you find motion jarring.
• Experimental Co-Op Mode: Can be enabled for multiplayer testing.

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3. Utilize the Codex for Unit and Faction Info

The Codex provides crucial details about Wielders, units, and mechanics. If you’re unsure about a unit’s role, check its abilities and stats to maximize your strategy.

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4. Start with the Campaign

Instead of jumping straight into skirmish mode, play the first campaign: The Song of Stoutheart. This serves as an in-game tutorial that introduces mechanics gradually and provides lore that enhances the experience.

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5. Move Faster Using Right-Click & Shortcuts

• Right-clicking a second time while moving teleports your Wielder instantly to the destination.
• Use Q to continue movement if a Wielder has actions left.
• Use Tab to cycle between Wielders quickly.
• Use Alt to highlight all interactive objects on the map.
• Use E to rapidly cycle through turns and actions.

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6. Plan Your Wielder’s Skills Wisely

Each Wielder gains skill points that can significantly impact your playstyle. Consider:

• Spellcasters: Focus on boosting Essence generation.
• Melee/Archery Wielders: Prioritize command levels to increase unit stack sizes.
• Faction-Specific Strengths: Different Wielders excel in different strategies.

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7. Understanding Build Sites

Settlements have Small, Medium, and Large build sites. A larger build site can accommodate smaller buildings, but it’s best to plan efficiently:

• Large sites should prioritize major structures like research buildings or top-tier units.
• Medium sites can house economy or support structures.
• Small sites are best for basic resource generation.

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8. Recruit Units with Strategy

Unlike HoMM 3, stack sizes are limited, and units generate Essence, which fuels spells. Consider:

• Mixing unit types for a balanced Essence pool.
• Maximizing available slots based on command level.
• Specializing Wielders to optimize synergy between spells and unit types.

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9. Research is Key to Long-Term Success

Most factions have their research locked behind Large Build Sites, making early decisions crucial:

• Choose between top-tier units and research buildings early.
• Two research paths per faction: One focuses on army strength, the other on economy and magic.
• Plan ahead to ensure your army’s long-term growth.

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10. Resource Management: Gold Isn’t Everything

While gold is important, the real bottleneck will be rarer resources like Glimmerweave, Celestial Ore, and Ancient Amber. Prioritize:

• Capturing and upgrading resource nodes.
• Using rally points to consolidate troop recruitment across multiple settlements.
• Upgrading economy buildings for a steady flow of materials.

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Final Thoughts

These beginner tips will set you up for success in Songs of Conquest, helping you navigate the unique mechanics and optimize your playstyle. Mastering movement, planning research, and utilizing your Wielder’s abilities effectively will give you the edge in campaigns and skirmishes.

Happy conquering!