So what's the problem then? Well, play SoD. For extra certainty, do it without the HD mod, placing units one by one by hand for half an hour. It will be a real casual experience, something like Counter-Strike. But certainly not chess, which Heroes is often compared to. We simply have different perceptions of the game. This will come to you with experience.

well and play chess then, I just play when I have time, playing with the HD mod is very convenient because it simplifies specifically the controls and doesn't affect the gameplay) and Heroes will never become chess, nor chess become Heroes; generally, I think it's pointless to argue who's cooler here, because SoD and VotG are only united by units, landscapes, and hero names, the games are completely different in style
when there are professional tournaments for Heroes with press and other bells and whistles, then we can compare them to chess and sports in general, but for now it's all just for fun)