The game uses an overhead, turn-based map. Heroes move between towns, resource sites, treasures, and neutral creature groups, with movement points refreshed at the start of each turn.

Players develop towns, recruit armies, and improve heroes through experience, artifacts, and spell learning. Battles take place on a separate grid where creature stacks move and attack in alternating turns. Scenarios are won by completing their stated objective, commonly defeating opponents or capturing key locations.

Expand early by securing nearby resource sites and a second town when possible. Prioritize wood and ore for basic construction, then protect rare resources needed for advanced buildings and stronger units.

Use secondary heroes to scout, collect loose resources, and ferry troops. Avoid unnecessary fights that weaken valuable stacks, and let experienced heroes handle difficult battles so their skills and spellbooks continue to improve.