SpellForce 3

About

SpellForce 3 blends real-time strategy with role-playing in a high fantasy world. You manage settlements, build armies, and engage in real-time battles while also leveling characters and making story decisions that affect the kingdom. The fractured realm of Nortander is recovering from civil war, with a queen in a coma and a ruthless marshal ruling in her absence. As a soldier with ties to rebel mages, you navigate political intrigue and supernatural forces through combat and dialogue. The game’s strength lies in its dual focus on tactical warfare and narrative depth. Single-player mode offers a 40-hour campaign with meaningful choices, while co-op lets two players share command. Community feedback highlights the balance between micromanagement and character progression, though the steep learning curve may deter casual players. Its return to the series’ roots earned it a 82/100 on Metacritic, with many praising the integration of strategy and RPG elements.

Storyline

"It is the year 518, before the Convocation. The rebellion of the four royal houses against the crown of Nortander instigated by a renegade mage has been quashed by the Queen with the help of a loyal house, but it was a Pyrrhic victory; the war has devastated the country and public order has broken down in many regions, where the law of the strongest now reigns. As if that wasn’t enough, the Queen was seriously injured in the last battle of the war and has been lying in a coma ever since, so the supreme commander of the royal forces is now in charge of state affairs either until she awakens or dies, in which case her niece will step up as her successor. The Lord Marshal rules with an iron fist in his attempt to restore stability to the country and has, among other things, used magic, which is prohibited in Nortander unless under exceptional circumstances. But there is a glimmer of light in these dark times. There are growing signs that Aonir, the Godfather, has returned to Eo. Increasing numbers of people are looking to Aonir as the only God, and pray he will lead Nortander to another golden age. Although your father was one of the rebel mages, as a member of the royal army you have remained loyal to the Queen. Will you uphold your responsibilities toward Nortander?"