HoMM3 HD is a mod (add-on) for the game Heroes of Might and Magic 3.

Because a game of Heroes isn't like Dota; it takes a lot of time. And just sitting around at the computer while your opponent takes their turn is a very boring and unproductive way to spend time.

And you can't just pause and wait because the opponent's timer is running.

The idea of having to reload every time you need to step away seems absurd to me.

I wonder what kind of tasks can be effectively done in short bursts of 15 minutes? If you need to step away, just send a message on ICQ; maybe your opponent will go make some dumplings. Respect other people's time!

If you want convenience, you should ask the developers to implement a PAUSE feature at any point in the game, which can be started and stopped by either player.