What's Happening?
Ubisoft has announced the addition of two classic games from the Heroes of Might & Magic series to PC Game Pass and Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. The announcement was made during the Heroes of Might & Magic 30th Anniversary Showcase, where Ubisoft revealed that Heroes of Might & Magic II: Gold and Heroes of Might & Magic III: Complete are now available to subscribers. Additionally, Ubisoft disclosed that the next installment in the series, Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era, has been delayed until 2026, although a demo is currently available on Steam. This marks the first new game in the franchise since the release of Might & Magic Heroes 7 in 2015. The showcase also highlighted the upcoming release of the Heroes of Might & Magic: 30th Anniversary Retrospective book, available for preorder on Amazon.
Why It's Important?
The addition of these classic RPGs to Game Pass is significant for both Ubisoft and Microsoft, as it enhances the value of the subscription service by offering nostalgic content to gamers. This move could attract older gamers who have fond memories of the series, as well as new players interested in exploring classic titles. The delay of the new game, Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era, may impact Ubisoft's release schedule and could affect the franchise's momentum. Furthermore, the criticism from Laura Fryer, a former Xbox team member, regarding the Game Pass price hike, highlights potential dissatisfaction among consumers, which could influence Microsoft's reputation and future subscription strategies.
What's Next?
Ubisoft's decision to delay Heroes of Might & Magic: Olden Era to 2026 suggests that the company is focusing on ensuring the quality of the game before its release. The availability of a demo on Steam allows players to experience the game early and provide feedback, which could be used to make improvements. The release of the 30th Anniversary Retrospective book may also generate interest and engagement among fans of the series. Meanwhile, Microsoft's handling of the Game Pass price hike and the associated criticism may lead to further discussions about subscription pricing and value in the gaming industry.
