New Content Discussion [SPOILER]

[Apprentice Darkmoon]

I wonder how many of you sent Marin that lumber...
View attachment 442171

The Lord of the Sky... not that thing again.
Well, as long as we can use it at least once...
I think the GG and the dwarves will use this new toy against the vermin and certain firelord.

 

[Mvicio]

Very carefully.

Oh so it´ll be some sort of super turret, cool.

Also, we didn´t talk that much about AQT so i´ll start:

20) So Zoia´s family is now even wealthier, i suppose that´s fair since he didn´t pay for child support.
25) I think that´s Logan actually.
35) So technically only Saphira, Mordin and Saint Loraine are bound to Rahandir instead of Aridon.
42) CleaveChadHand doesnt fall back from his enemies, he was like a mountain.
50) Yep that makes sense, the salrian nobility can´t learn.
70) So that answers the question that if both the bonelords and Redfist (both characters known for working good with other armies) were allied against the orcs, the dominion would have cease to exist.
108) Bets on Destroyer
126) So that means there are other races in other continents that drive back the demons, they are hate everywhere it seems.
155) Redfist hands down

 

[DD Mikasa]

How did they fit in a cave

They made the driver udergo a very strict 6 months driving course so he can learn to manage those tight spaces... Alternatively they might have applied lube LOTS of it.

 

[Nicolas Warchief]

I wonder how many of you sent Marin that lumber...

I not, because i wanted test how destroy Genethas without air unit and too because i know that destroy Van Durce base will become very difficult with this Lord of Sky

But is interestly that sending lumber will give us Lord of Sky on that mission of caves, this will make things so better, specially that i ever lose the central base and rebuild on top

 

[Navy45]

How did they fit in a cave

My headcannon is that there is a bloodstone dwarf somewhere who is very happy with the amount of gunpowder he has been allowed to use to enlarge the entrance

 

[Shar Dundred]

Soon.
Very soon.

 

[HuanJuan]

Soon.
Very soon.

Shar, be fast if you can, my Arkain Addiction is killing me.... the symptoms of withdrawal is getting stronger and stronger every day...

 

[Shar Dundred]

You will get your shot soon enough. Quite the DEEP shot I should say.

 

[Nicolas Warchief]

Shar, be fast if you can, my Arkain Addiction is killing me.... the symptoms of withdrawal is getting stronger and stronger every day...

Me too... And my case is worst because i wait until the entire act is released.

 

[Mochi King]

I still have some questions since the recent arkain question time didn't answer some questions i'm very curious about. Not sure if the others were answered since some answers are vague or avoided. And I also have some withdrawal issues. I'm excited to see the next act since the highlight for this will surely be the orcs. Can't wait for Aridon to lose his sh*t.

1. How strong was Senarion the Demonslayer
2. How strong is Marogonin
3. Brockta vs Dorbric, who wins in a fight?
4. Theoretically, if Redfist sets his rage upon the undead, how much damage can he do?
5. Maronogin vs Tregakh, who would win?
6. If the other main human or orc characters die, will Aridon raise them to be part of his undead legions?
7. Rahandir vs Queen Kasraasz, who would win?
9. Would the former Wolf Generals before Zoia do the same thing to Blen if they were still in service?
10. If Selior didn't have half his forces given to Bloodclaw, would he succeed in defending against the orcs?
11. Is it true that even if Lerrig never left the defense line, the imperials would still lose to the orcs?
12. Isn't Lord Varan strong enough as a necromancer for the undead nexus to take notice?
13. In the True Story, does Amari know of Brian's true name?
14. Is Pechan the Mechanic superior to the zyaise engineers or is there an engineer who is equal or superior to him in Zyainor?
15. Does the emperor have a personal army? If he does, comparing it to the rest of the armies we have seen throughout the story (Ironfist, Redfist, Grey Guard, Regiments, Golden Guard), how strong is the emperor's personal army?
16. In the true story, why did Ironside choose not to turn against the Golden Guard?
17. If the Golden Guard were to invade the Gates of Hell will all of the soldiers they brought still alive, let's say Watcher's magic hand doesn't get in the way, how much can the Golden Guard conquer?
17 (2). Is 'the Guardian' a servant of Bhaarizel?
18. Why are the important ironfist characters (e.g, Claire, Tormin, Herdon) not turned into heroes? I assumed they would become heroes like Haran since they have some importance (especially Claire and Thanok).
19. How strong is Thanok? Is he like the other common black dragons or is he a bit stronger since he is a commanding officer?
20. Is Scarlett Retka crazy because of chaos magic or is she just crazy?
21. What happened to Seabright's Elite after Zyainor has risen again? Do you believe Zora’s Pirates have the potential to be as strong as the marines?
22. Are the War Zeppelins equal to Destructors or is this just gameplay balancing?
23. Are warriors stronger in death or do they have the same strength? I have doubts that a soldier can have the same strength as their flesh counterparts.
24. Can Lord Marin or Pechan recreate the Eliminator? Or create somehthing stronger?
25. Has Zyainor not attempted to create an airship similar to Lord of the Sky? I mean, they managed to create Seabright.
26. Are Ironfist and Redfist simply strong due to Thanok’s training and pure rage, respectively? Let’s say they get reanimated, will they be as strong or stronger than their living counterparts?
27. Does Zyainor have more elites after Thanok became drill sergeant? I have the head canon of soldiers becoming elites in the Ironfist and ordinary civilians becoming battle-hardened warriors after being trained.
28. If Gardon can beat Volarian in a 1v1, does that mean Amari can too with shadow magic?
29. Why are the bonelords so strong? Is it because they're arkainian or because Aridon gave them more power than the other servants?
30. Ornasion vs Sir Edoarus, who would win?

From AQT (Some realizations or things I thought that could still be wrong)
18. Wasn't there a story or implication that Rahandir slain a red dragon queen before?
31. Why not? I thought they would be great assets on the battlefield?
43. Does this mean she no longer trusts them with a non-aggression pact?
81. I'm taking this as a yes.
82. Means the moment he dies, the crusade ends. Got it.
85. Does this mean we'll get to see Thanok as a summon like Korzar?
89. Why was Thorn not as wrathful though? I would assume he was like the rest of Redfist. Was it because he understood the orc's perspective or other things?
94. So yes.
106. So it's mass produced indeed.
134. So they can, but won't.
137. Hoping we could see these in action. Imagine heavy armored knights raising skeletal soldiers on the battlefield.
142. So there were past queens.
147. I meant this in a way that he was general only of the Golden Guard. Meaning the Ironfist wouldn't exist and he would lead this elite army to war against the demons. Would they also be as arrogant as they are or would the be fanatical instead (like how the Ironfist worships Gardon)?
148. That honestly surprised me.

 

[VastanX]

You will get your shot soon enough. Quite the DEEP shot I

Diggy diggy hole...

 

[Plantpaladin]

Ok, just tried it, insane amount of unit spam getting thrown at you. Gave up for today.
Paladins are good but require much micro to spam holy light. Whats the best kill order for bases?
Siege engines seems good for central base borth of you as they dont have that much that fight back.
The waves seem to skip your units to a degree to head for bases, intended?
Is the wave numbers only time dependant?

 

[Jayborino]

Ok, just tried it, insane amount of unit spam getting thrown at you. Gave up for today.
Paladins are good but require much micro to spam holy light. Whats the best kill order for bases?
Siege engines seems good for central base borth of you as they dont have that much that fight back.
The waves seem to skip your units to a degree to head for bases, intended?
Is the wave numbers only time dependant?

Ahhhh that's the caves mission I remember, weeeeeeeeeeeeeee

 

[Nicolas Warchief]

Ok, just tried it, insane amount of unit spam getting thrown at you. Gave up for today.
Paladins are good but require much micro to spam holy light. Whats the best kill order for bases?
Siege engines seems good for central base borth of you as they dont have that much that fight back.
The waves seem to skip your units to a degree to head for bases, intended?
Is the wave numbers only time dependant?

I have some strategies, first if you can't handle with waves of attack of all direction in your base consider rebuild your base on top, because Goblins and the Infernals that spawn right direction will fight each other.

I try some mix of Paladin with Shieldbreaker, they are very good as tank, you will need the priest that spawn runes of heal, roar to give more damage, put some range and artilery units, this is all needeed, of course with good using of spell os three heroes.

 

[Zergy]

Alright, I've tested the map and I have to say, Shar... The map was very oppressive honestly.

The Starting of the Mission was a slugfest! Fighting hoards of Vermin just to get to the base where they are spawning. I had to leave King Zarin Hammerfall and some Rune Priest and Riflemen in my main base just to keep things under control from the Oppressive attacks. While I ordered Praxeus and Horgar to lead my main force, consisting of Paladins and Templars, and Mortar Teams to clear the Top right base.

I manage to clear the top right base with a bit of struggle in managing both the front lines and defending 3 simulations attacks that are happening in my main base. Guess Playing Starcraft 2 has its payoff in micro-management!

Also, What the bloody hell was this? 3 attacks at once?? I barely held my main base together. Huge Attack waves that will get out of hand quickly if you don't have a defending force at home.

Plus, by the time the Lord of Skies came to my aid, it was already useless to me cause I already did its job and I have established myself a base there. Thanks, Lord Marin for your Marvelous and Useless Invention. You could at least send it against the Stupid FireLord, Progadaros, that kept respawning during my final push!!


The rest of the bases were a breeze to clear out. The Golden Guard unit did their job holding the line while Mortar Team snipped the Barracks. Seriously, This mission requires intense micro if you want to pull off what I did in the early game.

Anyways, by the time I got to my late game, it took 3 attempts to get things on the right track before I secured my victory. AH! The amount of Fire Golems that kept coming was a pain, well at least Paladin and Shield Breakers are great tanks in holding the front.

Do note that your heroes are better tanks, due to the fact that all 3 of them are strength heroes. I think?? Was Horgar an Intelligence?

Lenard: I dunno, Zergy? You asking me? I wasn't paying attention cause I was trying to look at the mini-map for any surprise attacks.


Ugh...

Basta! The last Phase of this damn memorable Mission was a FREAKING SLUG FEST!! THE FIRE GOLEMS ARE SO TANKY IT TAKES A WHILE TO KILL THEM AND THEN TO PUSH FORWARD! Plus, that allows the enemy to respawn back that Stupid Firelord! At least give me some better Treasure when I kill you again!

And by the way, the Salamanders at the left, have a horrible Item Drop! Assassin Dagger, huh?? Poison damage, really? This thing is useless! All of my heroes have Orb effects on them. Well, at least can you replace it with Claws of Attack or Ring of Protection? Cause Horgar is Really squishy without Praxeus Healing or Armor buff.

In my conclusion. This would have been fine. If you don't count the 3 to 4 Prong attacks that happen at the same time and occur very often during this skirmish of mine! Plus, the Lord of Skies felt lacking in the role...

I spend 10k Lumber, for this??? How anti Climatic...

If that is your intention in this mission Master Shar Dundred? I would just respect your choice, this is just a review, an insight into how things turn out for me.

And I thought Killing Bugs and Moving Dirt in my Game, Deep Rock Galatic, was Oppressive...

 

[Shar Dundred]

I spend 10k Lumber, for this??? How anti Climatic...

No, you spent 10k gold for a fleet of Destructors In the very mission you paid the lumber in.

 

[Zergy]

No, you spent 10k gold for a fleet of Destructors In the very mission you paid the lumber in.

This is going to haunt me unitl the time you release the Last stand of the Golden Guard.


The Vanguards, Destructors, Pride of Humanity and The Lord of Skies are going to kick my ass after saying it insults...

Just came to me right now. The Lord of the Skies maybe useless now in the latest mission, but it is foreshadowing for the inevitable Terror it brings... those who didn't experienced the Original 2nd human book.

This is going to be difficult since Lerrig is ded... Gardon he could been useful! But alas Sir Lerrig has proven himself to be to much of an idiot...

 

[Plantpaladin]

Thank you so much Nicholas and Zergy for the advice!

Defended main base until I could rebuild Northeast. Did it on a fresh save so no big airship, just some melee and 2 casters which have abolish and stun if you wanna micro. Ultimate defense is the chokeholds which forces them to wait in line. Did paladin Boni.
Did mostly paladins with some bear riders when i had to rebuild fast, got a lieutanant for aura.
Keep up runes with hero if rune priests dies. Helps with paladin mana.
Use mortar teams to find bases with flare.
Siege engine is ok as a finisher if you have to retreat with others but not really worth it.
Usually got the base attack at same time that i was about to finish off bases, retreated with most of team and left mortars and a few units to clean up. Did bases counterclockwise, you dont want them to attack behind your army.
You can accidently trigger last base by cutting wood, watch out or they can attack in a pincer, cut or blow up last trees after other bases are down.

 

[HuanJuan]

I'm after the Menance...

It's strange to see, that Lord Marin sending his regards, after I destroyed the Northren Kobold barracks. More strange to me, he sended the giang Airship, sadly I can't control it. When it's arrived, I already had plans to make use of it.

Not too many item can be found on this chapter. None of them are highly special, but it's good to have. I hope I can use them with the Dwarf heroes in the future.

It's quite intense so to say, after the intro the player was hit the harsh reality merely half a minute after it. If someone is delusional, or naive, the attack waves are gonna eat it no time, and going to be digested pretty soon after it!... Timing is important, and be very punishing, if the player was not
fast enough to react and counterattack. The Kobolds with this numbers and powers can eat giants down there!

Birram has no luck this time. He did his best in the past, fate is not so nice to him this time in the Diplomacy between the Ironfist and the Dwarfs. Praxeus come in time, and during the chapter: the reinforcements definetly helps with the pressure, that grasping the player from different directions.

Lord of Lava had a pretty good ground, but sadly, he is underestimated the Dwarfes and the Stonelords. Btw, it's strange to see that only the Golden Guard sended reinforcements, no other Dwarf-kind clan/faction sended any type of reinforcements. Probably they are very busy, and it's understandable.

 

[LISBOAH]

I started playing the new chapter, but the sheer difficulty made me quit. I will try it again later on.

Lore:
-Oh no. Zarin is 100% to blame for leaving his own home unprotected against the rats. He went after the Orcs for a pathetic vendetta, because his brother was hired to protect an artifact for a vain Elven Queen. Even worse is that all those Dwarves in Salria will either be killed by the Dominion or by the Army of Bones.
-Zarin keeps going lower in the good character tier list.
--Zarin: Accuses Gardon of dishonorable acts.
--Also Zarin: Allies himself with the Golden Guard that started a civil war that engulfed two kingdoms and tried to murder Gardon. Also he can notice Gardon's lies and schemes, but not even a single one coming from the Golden Guards' side.
-I love how the Golden Guard simply asked the Dwarves to keep the demons at bay, but Zarin's pride and anger made him decide to join the Golden Guard against the Ironfist. Yet more Dwarves will die for nothing due to Zarin's inability to control his own emotions. How is this guy still High King after all these blunders?

 

[Shar Dundred]

I started playing the new chapter, but the sheer difficulty made me quit. I will try it again later on.

Did you try the new version?

 

[Kasrkin]

Hard did not sustain me this time.

Spoiler

 

[ƬƖƦЄƊ]

Done
1292 vermin killed.

 

[Apprentice Darkmoon]

I finished the mission:
What can I say? I played both the old and new version of the mission. I'm agreed that the former one was a nightmare and a truly challenge. I will give my review about the new version and the lore:

• I was thinking that the Ironfist wouldn't appear, but they did. I despise them, how they dare to appear? Gardon knows they will never join them because of the black dragons. Only for this time I'm with the dwarves: Neither Gardon nor Ironfist scum can be trusted.
• Poor Praxeus. He charges with lots of regret and sorrow. A pity for this big guy, there is not turn back now, only push forward.
• I don't expect the spider ring on this mission. A pity, Inara could use it haha.

Now gameplay:

• I used some on my initial units to launch an attack to the bottom bases and free the gold mine there.
• I choose Zarin's boni.
• I'm really grateful for the reinforcements. Only one Stonelord riflemen got stuck when their appear.
• When the Lord of the sky appeared, I was thinking that it will move to the other bases. Sadly I read that it will hold the position, but well, at least it creates the perfect diversion in the orange base.

A really challenge mission. I think the next mission is the naval battle against Tarai and Zora. Who knows? perhaps more exclusive true story content there?
Good job.

 

[HuanJuan]

I Played the second version of the Menace Below (True Story).

More reinforcements. So now I feel myself, I should make any type of active effort on my own to fight and train units against the Ancient enemies of the caves. More than enough to complete the chapter. I'm very glad that the dwarfs help eachother out in the times of need. Golden Guard is also sending more reinforcements. Templar has no description by the way. Also, I didn't destroyed the northern Kobold Barracks before the Lord of The Sky arrived. It's... Lackluster, to put it mildly: The Airship alone does not capable to secure the whole northern region, because of very slow rate of fire. Now I see, the Airship is invincible, thanks by some sort of Über health regeneration that the creators given to it. The Airship only made the Kobolds there occupied, until I came with the army up there. In the time before I came up there, the Airship basically did a rain dance or something, circulating in the air, and firing on Kobold units. It's was hillarious, but useful after all. Also, 1-2 mini heroes or unique units is came with reinforcements, like Thane.

The attack waves of the Kobolds are not that deadly, then it before in the first release version of the chapter.

There is nothing much to say, Praxeus leadership boni is better, than the dwarf one. Both times I selected the Paladin upgrade. It was worth it.

Thx Shar & Team.

 

[Zergy]

A short and Quick review of this update:

It's not oppressive anymore. Thanks, Shar Dundred now I can focus on killing the Top left base for my 2nd base now.

The reinforcement of the Dwarf clans was really unnecessary for my battle plans, but they give a sense of brotherhood within their community. Kinda reminds me of Deep Rock Galatic. The Dwarves of Arkain really give out the 'ROCK & STONE' vibes.

"I'm Still Wondering if Fighting Vermin and Moving Dirt is really the best way to make a living?"

And yes the Golden Guard reinforcements were a nice touch as well. Yet still the Lord of Skies still Lacking with its job, by the time I made my move against the Top right base for my 3rd base... It's too slow in killing things...

The Final push against that stupid Fire Lord was still a Slug fest though, Damn those Fire Golems!

Yet, the Assassin's dagger is still there, with the Salamanders... Yay... Poison effect that gets overlapped with the Heroes Orb effects...

Well, at least we get the Spider Ring.

In conclusion... The map was very manageable for the casual Arkain fan who can't micro their units fast enough in doing both attacking and defending a base. (Yes, I know the feeling when shit goes down too quickly to your liking. I'm used to that feeling since I played Starcraft 2...)

I'm still not satisfied with the Item drop, but it's your design, and you know I'm just giving my insights... Especially the Lord of Skies... We'll meet again... In the Last Stand of the Golden Guard. This Hunk of Junk better gives me some Over Power Treasure for Gardon to us. And by the time comes, I will watch it burn down with my Black Dragons...

 

[DD Mikasa]

Well well well looking at the number of replies saying how they got "zegling spamed" to oblivion makes me assume that before the update (which was the version i played) the map was akin to its SHB predisessor. The old trick i used to overcome the spam was to hit the blue and red base on the west and then migrate my entire base where the red vermin base was and thus i could take my sweet ass time to destroy the rest.

This new version was honestly way easier, all i did was take my ranges units and heavy frontliners to attack the vermin bases and used the goldenguars units to hold as manny attack waves as possible before they perished (with a better micro i could have keept them alive completely)

My attack order was south> west> east and the main base for last.

One interesting thing when the big airship arrives it pretty much occupies the entire orange base in trying to deal with it so attacks from that spot are non existence after the airship spawns HOWEVER it also glitches the red base to send its forces in a loop of patrol from their base to the orange base effectively making them useless might wanna check that out shar.

Interesting that the goblins got removed in this version of the map, does that have implications in the lore? I remember that dwarfs and goblins are bitter rivals.

 

[nchp1903]

Finally back from an unwanted hiatus, and I'm tired as shit to play or write a review. Thus, I will just attach a few screenshots as proofs of my severe lapse of judgment, which led to a pyrrhic victory.

Spoiler

 

[LISBOAH]

• I was thinking that the Ironfist wouldn't appear, but they did. I despise them, how they dare to appear? Gardon knows they will never join them because of the black dragons. Only for this time I'm with the dwarves: Neither Gardon nor Ironfist scum can be trusted.

All part of the plan. Now no one can say that Gardon didn't try diplomacy with the Dwarves. The Dwarves willingly allied themselves with the Golden Guard that betrayed the Kingdoms, and thus have become enemies that have to be defeated.

 

[Apprentice Darkmoon]

All part of the plan. Now no one can say that Gardon didn't try diplomacy with the Dwarves. The Dwarves willingly allied themselves with the Golden Guard that betrayed the Kingdoms, and thus have become enemies that have to be defeated.

Yeah, the dwarves doom themselves for this choice. Things could be different if Gardon didn't use his tricks on Salana's amulet and she could convince Zarin. Well, we'll never know.

 

[HuanJuan]

Yeah, the dwarves doom themselves for this choice. Things could be different if Gardon didn't use his tricks on Salana's amulet and she could convince Zarin. Well, we'll never know.

Gardon methods are questionable for me, and I'm sure: Is he better than the Demons? The Undead? I mean, Is HE and the Ironfist is better, than the two other faction? I mean, He & Ironfist has great results, but the corruption on amulets & other things... Is he really better? Or, by an old saying: "Everything is allowed in war, to win the war"? Be aware, it's easier being smarter as an outsider, who does not participated such a thing, & I'm a layman.

 

[LISBOAH]

Yeah, the dwarves doom themselves for this choice. Things could be different if Gardon didn't use his tricks on Salana's amulet and she could convince Zarin. Well, we'll never know.

They would never ally themselves with those that made an alliance with the Black Dragons and undead.

Gardon methods are questionable for me, and I'm sure: Is he better than the Demons? The Undead? I mean, Is HE and the Ironfist is better, than the two other faction? I mean, He & Ironfist has great results, but the corruption on amulets & other things... Is he really better? Or, by an old saying: "Everything is allowed in war, to win the war"? Be aware, it's easier being smarter as an outsider, who does not participated such a thing, & I'm a layman.

At least they get to live with a semblance of freedom.

 

[Apprentice Darkmoon]

Gardon methods are questionable for me, and I'm sure: Is he better than the Demons? The Undead? I mean, Is HE and the Ironfist is better, than the two other faction? I mean, He & Ironfist has great results, but the corruption on amulets & other things... Is he really better? Or, by an old saying: "Everything is allowed in war, to win the war"? Be aware, it's easier being smarter as an outsider, who does not participated such a thing, & I'm a layman.

For me, stay with the Ironfist only ends with either you being brainwhashed or killed. They're not different to the Demons, the only good point is that at least the Ironfist give you a bit more survival rate, but nothing more. Even Mira, Salana's friend, knows that accept something from the Ironfist is bad news, that is why she refused Larine's offer to become general.

They would never ally themselves with those that made an alliance with the Black Dragons and undead.

True, they have their reasons, but desperate times, desperate measures. Sadly here is choice a less evil over another. Who knows? Maybe they can stab the Ironfist in the back during their retreat from the Gate of hell, killing tons of Black dragons and weakening them.

 

[Plantpaladin]

Finished the mission, not that hard since you got a new stack about the time you got your old stack killed.
Didnt have to reload except for start when I had to restart after I tried going north first and southern base since you have to go around in order not to get into a chokepoint with golems. Went west, north then south before final. Liked the Bloodstone Elites as they can be used as siege units that dont die.

As for Ironfist
Gardon has always been the knight in black armor. The person who will save humanity no matter the cost.
Redfist is not that different but makes the mistake of seeing the orcs as the biggest threat instead of the demons.
The GG might be better people but was sabotaged by their order to leave humanity to their doom on this continent.

 

[MyPad]

Just finished playing Act 9 Chapter 1 (prior to the update that would punish you for losing your preplaced Castle).

- The unending onslaught of the Aspirants of Heat made the first few minutes of the game unbearable. You start off with relatively small resources, albeit with a well-fortified fortress and some stationed troops. Setting up static defenses isn't a viable option as your base is quite exposed with 5 openings, and they'll just eat up your defenses anyway.

- Kobold Disciples are disgustingly effective against the dwarves, aside from the dwarven Shieldbearers (I know, they're called Shieldbreakers). Not only do they deal super-effective magic damage against your composition, they also have the relative attack power of riflemen, which makes it a lot more taxing on your end to keep your troops alive.

- Fuck. Kobold. Mutants.

- Progaderas finally becomes a required target after all the trouble he went through to avoid conflict with the races of Arkain. With that status comes the added benefit of revival. As he no longer says anything upon death, I guess this may be his final hour, as even the phoenix fades in the face of the void.

- Because Progaderas can be revived, I thought first to charge him head on and deal with the remaining vermin. What a dire mistake that was. Suffice to say, I decided to set up a static defense prior to luring Progaderas and his minions there.

 

[Shar Dundred]

1292 vermin killed.

Yet, the Assassin's dagger is still there, with the Salamanders... Yay... Poison effect that gets overlapped with the Heroes Orb effects...

It dos not overlap with the Orb of Earth, fyi.

prior to the update that would punish you for losing your preplaced Castle

I am told it makes the map much easier - in some eyes, too easy!

The unending onslaught of the Aspirants of Heat made the first few minutes of the game unbearable

That's actually an AI bug, they try to gather literally on the other side of the map in the other kobold base.
Fixed in the version you didn't play.

- Fuck. Kobold. Mutants.

Yeah, I think that is a very common feeling. X)

 

[MyPad]

That's actually an AI bug, they try to gather literally on the other side of the map in the other kobold base.

I'd say that bug was quite ... interesting in the context of the scenario.

I'll try to play the newer version and update my feedback on this particular chapter, though.

EDIT:
So, I've gotten to play the first few minutes of the new version of the map and it feels nice to not be barraged by the overly enthusiastic Aspirants of Heat who apparently just want to get to the other side but felt like they had to make it the dwarves' problem. Since the dwarves end up attacking the "defending" units (that's how warcraft 3 sees some of them), this leads to a quasi mass-suicide attack from the Aspirants of Heat.

 

[Navy45]

Finally was able to play the new chapter. Couldn't play the first version... but apparently that's best for my mental stability.

I really liked the changes compared to the SHB :

• Having to defend the main castle forces the player to stand their ground which makes it really feel like you are defending your home (it seemed strange to be able to evacuate without consequences)
• The rate of the attack and reinforcements is very nice. You can launch early attacks to break off the encirclement without having to resort to base trading.
• I have mixed feelings about the goblins not being here anymore (unless that's the consequence of a choice ?). On the one hand, it was nice to see factions from the SHB and the SOB interracting. On the other hand, they were a bit too prevalent in the SHB (they were the most powerful enemy except for Progaderas' base. Maybe having a few goblin miners behind trees (like the nerubians) could still show them trying to take advantage of the chaos.
• I was worried that the Lord of the Sky would be op and make the previous choice a no brainer. It's nice to see it's usefull for one base but that's all. (maybe have it say something like it can't fit in the smaller tunnels to justify it doing nothing once the base is destroyed ?)
• I always thought that Progaderas spawned no matter what on this mission but seems like I was wrong (lost my campaign progress so he never died).
• Having a mana fountain somewhere would be nice since we have heroes with rather poor mana regen and, from memory, taking on Progaderas with low mana is almost certainly a death sentence.

One thing in the ending cinematic : the line from Zarin about Guardon stealing his crown, power, allies... etc. It's an awesome line, but Zarin uses it twice almost word for word (in front of Birram and then when he promises help to Praxeus). Considering just a few minutes have passed, it makes it seem like Zarin thought of this really cool phrase and tries to place it everywhere he can and Praxeus is too polite to mention it.

It is a hilarious interraction but I don't think that is the intended tone.

 

[Shar Dundred]

One thing in the ending cinematic : the line from Zarin about Guardon stealing his crown, power, allies... etc. It's an awesome line, but Zarin uses it twice almost word for word (in front of Birram and then when he promises help to Praxeus). Considering just a few minutes have passed, it makes it seem like Zarin thought of this really cool phrase and tries to place it everywhere he can and Praxeus is too polite to mention it.

One of the two is not correct, yes. XD
I will have to check, thanks for letting me know!

 

[Apprentice Darkmoon]

Hmmm, about the news, we can expect the naval mission against Tarai and Zora, or a new brand mission for the undead. I think is too soon for the last crash against the golden guard, perhaps this will be the last mission of this act or the battle against the salrians and the disgusting skeletons.
I'll be waiting for new info.

 

[Plantpaladin]

Naval mission makes more sense, will probably have the faction endings in a row.

 

[Plantpaladin]

Fear implifies that you're fighting undead. Modified Risen Resistance? The Gnoll/Harpies isnt coming?
That would be scary.

 

[Mvicio]

It seems an undead chapter, perhaps something about Meya since is nobility and fear.

 

[Navy45]

It seems an undead chapter, perhaps something about Meya since is nobility and fear.

But in his previous ANN post, Shar said the new chapter would be a familiar one (though different in gameplay) and we've already gone through all the chapters of the SUB. I'd say among all the chapters we know of, the most likely is against the pirates but who knows ?

 

[Mvicio]

But in his previous ANN post, Shar said the new chapter would be a familiar one (though different in gameplay) and we've already gone through all the chapters of the SUB. I'd say among all the chapters we know of, the most likely is against the pirates but who knows ?

Next human chapter has to be the last stand of the golden guard so either pirates va orcs or undead new map.

Perhaps the gnoll royalty is afraid of the sea (or sea monsters) so thats the overcome the fear.

 

[Plantpaladin]

Y'all can look forward to Risen Resistance, I can tell you that much.
It will be a banger!

Found a quote from page 60. That was before the Dwarf mission was released.
Is there a mission out of order in the True Story?
Skip the Dark Sea scenario scenario for now?

Undead attacks in Dark Sea? Get A Fresh Breeze flashbacks ?

 

[Shar Dundred]

There is nothing out of order here.

 

[Plantpaladin]

There is nothing out of order here.

Ok, thanks for the comment and for all the work you've done.
7 original maps left (+ 1 GG path reworked?) and some new ones.
Gonna miss Arkain.

 

[Zergy]

I already have a hunch that the next release would be the well-known Naval Battle. It is impossible if Shar would release either the Last Stand of the Golden (Human) Guard or the Risen Resistance (Orc) Chapters. What I can assume is that he would release an Undead Chapter after the Orc Chapter, which hopefully focuses on Ornasion's revenge quest against the Soul Eaters.


Based on the Chapters' orders during the Original Second book eras, I think the finals for Act Nine would be the Risen Resistance chapter for Orcs and the Interlude Last Talk and Birth of the Dominion (Without Choices) following Last Stand of the Golden Guard for Humans.

Cause Act 10's line would be, I would theorize goes the following:


1.) Maybe A Brand New undead Mission
2.) The Red Day
3.) End of the Invasion
4.) Another undead or Orc Exclusive Mission
5) The gates of Hell
6.) The final Interlude that wraps everything up or I would assume how Shar Dundred would call it ('Age of Peace')

 

[Zergy]

Review on the latest release.

Story

The beginning of the story is just how it goes. Orcs talk to Gnolls. GoreHowl and his words are filled with suspicions, and he has the right to feel so... Amarii isn't the Amarii from SOB (2nd Orc Book). This also includes the ending, where King Gorehowl orders his men to increase security, he knows Amarii has Brain's influence on her. It ain't all sunshine and friendship anymore mates. Then ya got Zora and Taray's interactions. They are so very relatable. Both of them got shunned by their society but in different ways.

Zora: For being a bastard child and then becoming a Pirate.
Taray: His order was dismantled and being treated like Squatters.

And to Think Orcs were no different than humans. What a world we live in.

Then ya got that one insignificant character from Kome. She will not be missed and Falcon Regiment replacing Dragon Regiment? Ok...

Oh yes, the Deaths of Rangul and Ephrog are sad, but anyway!

The Ogre Legion has arrived to support the Tribal Dominion and their allies, but I think if Clan Lord Brockta finds out about the deception within? The alliance is off... And so I think it would be?... Amarii is really good with her... Manipulations

Gameplay

The chapter went as I expected. We play as Gnolls and most of our troops are Gnolls, with Goblin support, especially with the Nuetered Mystics. RIP Lighting ability...
But what surprises me the most is the Naval battle! I was expecting a difficult time building my ships because of limited resources. Trust me Building a fleet of ships out of 2 gold mines is difficult in the Original book, but this time. Shar Dundred has blessed us with the Lord of Skies version for the Orcs. The King of the Seas!!
BLOODY HELL HAVE YA SEEN THIS THING???!!!

This baby can blow up Pirate ship insight, too bad it can't touch air units. That is where my harpies come in. King of the Seas kills ships while Harpies swat the Air Unit away.

conclusion

The overall Mission was a blast to play in and it challenged me with my micro between clearing the seas and countering enemy attacks. The enemy attacks are less annoying compared to SOB cause the AI somehow puts all of its eggs on you. Meaning that an attack that was supposed to be for the Gnoll allies ends up trying to fuck you. Yet in the end the attacks feel balanced, but the Sea battle aint.

The story was Darker compared to what it was before. For once the Gnoll King knows something is up and he has the right to not trust Amarii, I think he smells Brain's presence on her. Don't worry King Gorehowl she isn't that bad. She just wants to bring a change for the better good for the Orcs, after following through with their story. She just needs to... Remove some obstacles to get to her final goal...

The Epilogue only implies that skepticism the Gnoll now holds, this might get worse if Zyianor is rebuilt.

5/5 Map in my books. The dialogue has caught me off Guard and the Gameplay on the seas was no other. Hoping to see an 'UNDEAD' True Story campaign next, cause it is impossible for you to release a human version, cause of what I assume will be 'The Last Stand of the Golden Guard'. Unless you will be surprised again? You do I am aware that Act 9 has a lot of plot holes to be filled Shar. I'm expecting to surprise your council, at least we are patient to see where this is going.