If magical, turn-based 4X SpellForce: Conquest of Eo isn’t currently sitting in your Steam library, we’re here to tell you it should be. Released earlier in February, this fantastical strategy RPG takes fans back to Eo, a land full of strife but brimming with potential.
In it, you’ll climb the ranks, becoming the most powerful Mage of all, studying spells, training armies, and expanding the reach of your noble kingdom. Whether you get there by force, cunning, or diplomacy is up to you, but every choice you make changes your position in this ever-changing world. Your journey will take you through dozens of hostile factions, useful allies, and thousands of years-worth of arcane knowledge that you must master.
Before you start your ascent to the ruler of these lands, you’ll be asked to choose an archetype. Mages come in three main varieties – the Alchemist, Necromancer, and Artificer – one of which will be your starting build. We’ve created a guide to each of the archetypes to help you choose wisely, after all, your kingdom hangs in the balance.
How to pick
First, you have to be aware that the class you pick will change many of the in-game mechanics, so finding which one fits either your natural play-style, or goes against it for that extra spicy challenge, is of paramount importance.
It’s important to note that your choice will change the crafting system of the game – as this may be the biggest factor in your decision. Other differences include the Tower Room and additional decor, which are based around your Mage’s specific style, and the Apprentice you’ll take on a little later in the game.
The Alchemist
No prizes for guessing this guy’s specialty, the Alchemist brews potent potions that aid them in battle. If you’re looking for a delicate and detailed crafting system with seemingly endless combinations, the Alchemist makes a great pick.
A dark and mysterious presence, the Alchemist is shrouded in a cloak and mask. Their mind palace is filled to the brim with cunning concoctions and ways to use natural produce for personal gain. Taking this route means you’ll spend time in a Catalyst, a dedicated facility for brewing potions and tonics. In fact, you’ll spend a lot of time here, as each potion can only be used once – so keep planning, crafting, and stockpiling until you’re ready to wage war with these mysterious vials of liquid.
If you’re the kind of player who likes to keep their hands deep in the game, eschewing any quick fixes or shortcuts, this is a great pick, as you’ll be crafting and using specific potions to solve specific problems at all times. You should set your sights on Allyuvan as a starting location, as you’ll soon become respected and can cultivate a Herb Garden in your Tower.
The Necromancer
Is there anything more badass than a literal glowing skeleton raising the undead as their own private army? That, in a nutshell, is basically what the Necromancer does. This fellow is really leaning into the dark and arcane, able to manipulate the dead from beyond the grave.
Resourceful and self-sufficient, the Necromancer can raise their army from various scraps and resources found throughout the land. You’ll not have to stockpile in the same way as the other two classes, instead using your twisted abilities to draw strength from death and decay. You’ll be best off pursuing Death Magic, although you’re a flexible class that should focus on defence in battle.
In fact, Necromancers are a great choice for those of us who like to play defence, as the undead armies require some serious upkeep during battle. They’ll be strong and flexible, able to be summoned whenever you like, but they don’t possess a healing ability, so your own Aid spell and pockets full of Mana will come in handy here. Start your game on the Misty Coast, a treacherous land teeming with enemies. This location is home to Castle Meldec, which can provide useful bonuses when captured.
The Artificer
Despite their beefy appearance, Artificers are incredibly nimble when it comes to their hands. Their ability to craft and forge is second to none, giving them an advantage when it comes to using various types of ore to strengthen their armies and equip them fully.
Their arts lay in the physical realm, but draw strength from the mystical, allowing them to keep a loyal and ever-adapting army at their side. Their units will become stronger as the Artificer develops new permanent upgrades and powerful equipment, bolstering the might of an already battle-hardened army. Earthmaster Magic is your best bet with these guys, as it’ll enable you to stockpile ores even faster.
If your approach to battle is one that focuses on the strength of individual and indispensable units, the Artificer is the Mage for you. Instead of mere strength in numbers, where units get picked off and die, the armies of the Artificer are small but powerful. Keep your men alive, train them up, and create a well-armed task force that can take on any threat. Draycott, home of the dwarf cities, is a great starting spot for Artificers, as they will unlock unique quest activities.
Whichever Mage you choose for your campaign, pick up a copy of SpellForce: Conquest of Eo today to start on the path to greatness.