We all know the sacred 4Xes of strategy games stand for Explore, Expand, Exploit, and Exterminate. The magical new SpellForce: Conquest of Eo takes each of these elements of 4X games to a whole new level, combining magic with the strategy of war and conquest.
In this series of articles, we’ll be taking a quick look at how SpellForce: Conquest of Eo illuminates and interprets these crucial tenets of a 4X game – this time, the spotlight is on Expand.
Start strong
From the earliest point of the game, your Mage can begin their quest for expansion. Depending on the class you chose – the Artificer, the Necromancer, or the Alchemist, your method of developing your army and settlement will be different. Each of these classes represents a unique type of magic, which you must master if you wish to expand your rule across the whole of Eo.
Plant the first roots in your starting location and work your way out from there. You’ll want to focus on stockpiling items and loot that aids your personal playstyle, whether that’s defensive potions or offensive upgrades.
Diplomacy or destruction
How you handle your neighbours is largely up to you, although some will be more hostile than others. Setting out from your original base, you’ll soon come across a local city with which you can foster a positive or negative relationship. Be a good friend, and they may even let you build towers within their walls, allowing you to sew the seeds of your eventual rule.
Keep an eye on the fearsome Circle Mages, and stay out of their territory until you’re sure your army will hold fast. These powerful spellcasters are masters of the arcane, and just setting foot over the line of their rule may land you in a whole heap of trouble – so be careful where you go!
Riches of the soul… and pocket
As you set out across the varied lands of Eo, with your bolstered armies in tow, you’ll come across settlements and locations you can lay claim to. Once battle is won, you’ll be able to add whatever resources they produce to your own. Claiming mines, for example, means you have access to the vast sums of gold that lie beneath the mountains, and all the worldly pleasures that come with it.
Equally, expanding into the foggy lands of the Misty Coast may reward you with a deeper knowledge of the arcane, and an understanding of the very lands you seek to conquer. Don’t underestimate the wealth of the mind that can come from expanding your territory – even to the darkest of corners and deepest of caves. A land is always safer to explore when you’ve got the title deeds in your pocket.
Grab your copy of SpellForce: Conquest of Eo today and start expanding your own arcane empire.
