VCMI is an open-source engine recreation of Heroes of Might and Magic III, offering enhanced features and possibilities for players and modders. It aims to provide a stable, community-driven platform for experiencing and extending the classic game.

How It Works

VCMI replaces the original game engine with a modern, C++ based implementation. It leverages the original game's data files while providing a new API for scripting, modding, and UI customization, enabling significant extensions beyond the base game's capabilities.

Quick Start & Requirements

• Installation: Download pre-built binaries from the GitHub Releases page or use daily builds from builds.vcmi.download. Installation guides are available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
• Prerequisites: Requires original Heroes of Might and Magic III game data files.
• Resources: Setup involves downloading the engine and placing it alongside game data.

Highlighted Details

• Full engine replacement with C++ and Qt.
• Extensive modding support via Lua scripting, custom file formats, and a map editor.
• Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS).
• Active development with major releases approximately three times per year.

Maintenance & Community

• Active community with forums, Discord server, and a bug tracker.
• Development is ongoing, with daily builds available for testing.
• Major version updates may not support saves from previous versions.

Licensing & Compatibility

• Source code licensed under GPLv2 or later.
• Game assets licensed under CC-BY-SA 4.0.
• GPL license may have implications for commercial use or linking with closed-source projects.

Limitations & Caveats

Saves made with different major versions of VCMI are generally not supported, requiring users to finish games before updating. Daily builds are not guaranteed to be stable.