What were your expectations for Heroes 4?

Thirdly, the graphics are beautiful. I really like it.
But when I remember the jellyfish from the fourth game...

Well, that's a matter of personal preference. I, on the other hand, liked the jellyfish in the fourth game more precisely because it wasn't a beautiful creature in gold, but a monster...
And in general, I don't even remember what I expected from the fourth game anymore. I remember that at first, I didn't like it very much, then I abandoned it, but now I've found it and I think it's one of the best in the series:)