Evaluation Essay, Research Paper

The desire to write the great American novel has plagued writers since the onset of modern literature; now with the onset of the computer age, programers have attempted to create the great American game. Since the advent of computers the endeavor to write the great American game has prompted software writers to envision the creation of the most sophisticated and entertaining computer game that the world has ever known.

Their dream has come closest to fruition with the advent of “Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Battle to Save Earthania (HMM III).” Created by the 3DO company, this game combines stunning graphics with “real time” game play and great attention to detail. The 3DO company has truly produced this years best graphic game, far surpassing last year’s winner “Age of Empires” by Microsoft by utilizing cutting edge graphics and the best graphic accelerators available. The graphics used by the 3DO company are the latest in cinematic technology and include the famed “Direct X 6″ graphics accelerator. What does this mean to the average gamer? HMM III employs 64-bit graphic back grounds and foregrounds; which result in higher definition, intensified 3-D environments, and lifelike movement of characters. While game afficionados will argue that the play of the game is the true test of worth, most will agree that if the visuals don’t excite the player the play of the game is really a moot point.

The trend of strategy games today is dominated by the newly introduced “real time” game play. So, what does “real time” game play mean to you? The term “real time” when combined with strategy games describes a game that allows for a gradual development of the character being played. Prior to “real time” the character you received came fully developed; there was no concept of building up your character to face a final foe. With HMM III your character comes to you a low level knight, wizard, witch, beast master, or battle ogre that can grow provided the character acquires the appropriate items. During the course of your game, your character gains “battle points”, “precious artifacts”, and other materials that improve yours characters power, defense, attack, and knowledge. Your character, if played properly, could become a very powerful player, capable of gaining new talents, spells, and abilities. The advent of “real time” game play has elevated the strategy game industry to an all time popularity that has even affected the video game giants Nintendo and Sony. Both of which produced their trial run at “real time” by creating Zelda: The Quest of Time and Final Fantasy VIII respectfully.

The unique aspect that gives HMM III such a boost in the gaming industry is its attention to detail. HMM III attention to detail is seen in its depiction of characters created by J.R.R Tolkien; the game is based on the “Middle Earth” motif originated by J.R.R. Tolkien and his books “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings.” While the game does not borrow directly from the Tolkien’s books it does make use of creatures and abilities that are unique to this motif. In the world of “Middle Earth” certain characters are more affected by one character’s attack than by another and the greater the character the higher abilities he has. In addition to this there are dragons both black and red, ogres, unicorns, cyclops, dwarfs, elves, demons, and gorgon. For those who appreciate the “Middle Earth” concept HMM III is the ultimate gaming experience.

While the computer gaming industry revolution continues to expand exponentially, so does the demand for high quality games. To date “Heroes of Might and Magic: The Battle to Save Earthania” is the best game out on the market with the best graphics, “real time”game play, and attention to detail.