Disciples 3 - Interview @ Gaming Today

Akella's Mariana Vashurina has participated in a Q&A and Gaming Today to discuss Disciples III.  Here's a grab on RPG elements:

GT: The Disciples franchise is highly popular with RPG fans and we have heard that while there will be a host of new features - the same style of gameplay that made the previous titles popular will not have changed. What steps did you take to maintain the same level of familiarity while still developing a new gaming experience?

MV: As new features are concerned, the most obvious ones relate to the game’s transition to full 3D. It’s important to note though that battles still keep their dynamics and simplicity of perception. Also, the gamer will be able to make use of what used to be Rodplanters (they are called Land Guardian now) not only as a tool to expand the territory of the race’s influence on the map but also as individual units with their own peculiarities and upgrade system. Land Guardians are a kind of forts that can be used in tactical and strategic planning.

The Hero’s level-up system has also been changed. We’ve introduced static parameters that are pending the gamer’s action and affect the character’s capabilities.

Role-play system has also been upgraded. As for battles, we are striving to make them look more like tactical strategy, not card duels. Tactical strategy in which thinking is highly appreciated. We’ve also added some new resources – stones and miro (god favor). We’ve balanced economics and want to avoid cases when some resources are obviously abundant while others are missing. Magic plays a big role in Disciples III: Renaissance. Besides some magic effects on the global map, potions, race differences and other features Disciples fans are so much fond of, we’ve introduced cards and runes. Cards are unique spells on the global map that are impossible to learn while you’re in the Capital; however you can find them while traveling the land (on the map) or gain them (as a victory award). Runes are objects meant to help you during the combat. Just like cards, they can be found on the global map; they can also be obtained through magic spells, though. We try to be more RPG-oriented once you’re out of arena and even more strategy-oriented once you’re inside.