The developers could not use Inferno in the same form as in Heroes III: Night of Shooting Stars and the subjugation of Eeofol occur centuries after the events of the Olden Era; in Might and Magic VI-VII, the invasion primarily concerned Enroth and Antagarich; by Might and Magic VIII, there is no presence of devils on Jadame. Therefore, the role of the new demonic threat is built around the primitive semi-conscious wasp tribes from Might and Magic VIII. The official name of the organization is Beelzebub's Order of the Fly; it is ruled by the Dragonfly King. Source: Devlog #7.
Faction Idea
Hive is not just an insect city, but a cult of a demonic master whose essence flows through every insect and every follower. The developers link this to existing Might and Magic motifs, such as the Cult of Baa centered around devil worship. Visually and thematically, the faction combines occultism, body horror, and lore references.
Mono-faction Style
Hive is designed as a mono-faction: the more different types of insectoid units are in the army, the stronger they become. This guides the player toward an army consisting mainly of Hive creatures, although mixing with other factions is not forbidden.
Faction Ability
The faction ability allows for summoning larva cocoons. Their health depends on the total health of the Hive army, and the cocoons themselves act as obstacles blocking passages. After hatching, the larvae are ready for battle as a temporary summon. The ability can be upgraded through faction laws.
Adaptation and Absorption
- Some Hive abilities scale based on the tier of the enemy creature: the greater the difference between the Hive unit and the prey, the higher the damage.
- Mantes can switch between one of three abilities each round.
- Waurmos and Locusts can devour corpses to recover and strengthen; heroes can also learn a similar skill.
Lore Sketch
The devlog includes the journal of an inquisitor from the Suncrown Expedition. He observes insects gathering wood and stone, building a nest northeast of Castellatus near Chimera Falls, sees humanoids among them, and a creature that affects him with its voice. The final entry shows his fall under the influence of the "Master" and the rejection of the Chalice.