• Publisher: Ubisoft
  • Release Date: May 23, 2006
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 583 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 37 out of 583
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
  1. DawidK.
    Aug 3, 2007
    9
    One of the best sequels so far. Gain of good looking without loss in Heroes climate. Only Heroes III is still better than this one. To arms brothers! Theres a game that is worth playing! ( something unusuall these days).
  2. BrentD.
    May 27, 2006
    9
    This is the Heroes of old school. The game looks prettier but it pays just like the older HoMM games, which is a very good thing. I was a bit dissapointed when number 4 changed too much for my liking, but the return to classic Heroes play makes this one a gem.
  3. KyleF.
    May 27, 2006
    10
    This is a supreme example of a hero game. Definately the best in the Heroes series so far. I've been playing pretty much nonstop since I got it and will spend many many looooooon ghours playing some more. And more! And more!
  4. Humanophage
    Jun 30, 2006
    8
    A step backwards from HoMMIV, but a step towards what is good for the series. After all, the charm of HoMM lies in its noble simplicity, while the realm of mildly sophisticated fantasy turn-based strategies nowadays is ruled by the brilliant Age of Wonders. The gameplay in HoMMV is not as captivating as that of HoMMII or HoMMIII, I personally find it somewhat unfinished and raw as opposed A step backwards from HoMMIV, but a step towards what is good for the series. After all, the charm of HoMM lies in its noble simplicity, while the realm of mildly sophisticated fantasy turn-based strategies nowadays is ruled by the brilliant Age of Wonders. The gameplay in HoMMV is not as captivating as that of HoMMII or HoMMIII, I personally find it somewhat unfinished and raw as opposed to wholesome completeness of the early titles, but it is still fairly fine. The new graphical style looks rather cheesy, almost as cheesy as in Warcraft. It makes me wonder if in the future people shall talk about a peculiar early '00-ies style in 3D strategic games. HoMM5 graphics might be flamboyant and colourful, but only the castle screens can truly be called beautiful (I particularly like Haven). HoMM3 seem to be the best in the series in this aspect: tastefully schematic on the map, realistic and majestic on castle screens, battle fields, etc. To my mind, the perfect style would be a mixture of an upgraded HoMM3: RoE and M&M6 (that uses altered photographs as illustrations). But I digress. And graphics don't really matter, after all. What bothers me the most about HoMM5 is that they decided to screw the universe. Of course, things started to get funny around M&M8, but I still truly hope that continuity shall be restored later, now that M&M is seemingly ressurected. Expand
  5. KlausB.
    May 25, 2006
    10
    The game is absolutely awesome. Of course no game is *perfect* at the time of release, but the lots patches being released until the first expansion comes out - and I think even afterwards - will not only fix the last bugs and balance glitches but also add new features to the game! It's a pity the game isn't rerated afterwards.
  6. JerryB.
    Jun 5, 2006
    8
    As a former Heros enthusiast, I expected to be disappointed in Heros V, like I was on Heros IV. I wasn't. While it doesn't break any new frontiers, Heros V is much improved over IV, sort of like Heros III (my favorite) on steriods. It requires heavy computing muscle to bring out the rich envirnoment, so be warned. I lowered the score because of the editor omisssion but hope a As a former Heros enthusiast, I expected to be disappointed in Heros V, like I was on Heros IV. I wasn't. While it doesn't break any new frontiers, Heros V is much improved over IV, sort of like Heros III (my favorite) on steriods. It requires heavy computing muscle to bring out the rich envirnoment, so be warned. I lowered the score because of the editor omisssion but hope a future patch brings it back, as I think the real value to this series in in playing the aftermarket produced maps other enthusiasts make. So bring on the editor UBbisoft/Nival, please! It's a buy at an 8 though. Expand
  7. May 22, 2012
    10
    I have played all the heroes of might and magic games since Heroes 2 and I ahve to say, this game truly is fun and feels like those games I used to love as a kid. I have had a lot of fun with this game, and its price is really good. I recomend it to anyone, including those hardcore Heroes 3 players :)! Have fun!
  8. Aug 8, 2014
    10
    Definitely the best in the series. First one to have actually decent graphics, good storyline and - oh my god, the soundtrack was just amazing! You have more options of leveling up than in previous games, but not as complicated as in HoMM 6. I just love the design of the creatures, and there's enough types in each faction, i think more than in any Heroes game before or after. The combatDefinitely the best in the series. First one to have actually decent graphics, good storyline and - oh my god, the soundtrack was just amazing! You have more options of leveling up than in previous games, but not as complicated as in HoMM 6. I just love the design of the creatures, and there's enough types in each faction, i think more than in any Heroes game before or after. The combat system is very comfortable, and different unique abilities of factions, heroes and creatures and obstacles located on the battlefield make the battle a very strategic experience. There are lots of maps for multiplayer, with different sizes and layouts, wich enable you to play with your friends or family for months or even years. I wish I could rate it 11/10, but for now I have to end at 10/10. Expand
  9. Jan 8, 2016
    10
    Best game in the franchise.
    Period.

    They just took HooM3 and improvet on it a lot.
    Look at HooM6 or HooM7! And compare it to that gem! Good old times:(
  10. BurtC
    Jul 26, 2008
    10
    Best artwork ever if you have a good video card. I think this game is awesome.
  11. HelenT.
    May 26, 2006
    8
    Almost perfect. Almost! If this game had shipped with the map editor and a few small other things, I may have givne it a 9 (it would take something truly astounding to merit a 10). I'm hard on games though, an 8 is something I reserve for the very cream of the crop. Once I have a chance to try that map editor, this may even merit a 9.
  12. FrancisB.
    May 23, 2006
    8
    Awesome! But not innovative.
  13. LukeM.
    May 31, 2006
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  14. lukep
    Aug 13, 2007
    10
    this game the best every:) heroes is back baby wooot lol go dungeon
  15. beez
    Jan 19, 2010
    9
    It was awesome. Pretty town centers and an actual storyline. But its only failure was that when you got about halfway you were kinda sick of the heroes. They just got old i guess.
  16. Jan 20, 2013
    9
    It's 2013 so you can get this game complete with the expansions for cheap. It needs the expansions (particularly tribes from the east) to make it a decent game, but it is a REALLy good version of HoMM after the disaster that was HoMM IV.

    I loved HoMM III and played it for hours, but this version has actually made me love the series again. I'm only writing this now as HoMM VI is
    It's 2013 so you can get this game complete with the expansions for cheap. It needs the expansions (particularly tribes from the east) to make it a decent game, but it is a REALLy good version of HoMM after the disaster that was HoMM IV.

    I loved HoMM III and played it for hours, but this version has actually made me love the series again. I'm only writing this now as HoMM VI is utterly useless so they just can't quite get the formula right every time!

    Either way, I think that fans of fantasy games or (like me) fans of turn based strategy games will love this. It's got great graphics, awesome music and plenty of variety to keep you entertained.
    Expand
  17. Jul 31, 2012
    9
    I should say that I've never played any other game of this franchise before (demo of the first Heroes doesn't count), and I absolutely love this game: its gameplay is addictive, art direction and design are amazing: units, cities and heroes look pretty good if you are not trying to guess of how many polygons each model contains. With the last patch it is the way better balanced game thanI should say that I've never played any other game of this franchise before (demo of the first Heroes doesn't count), and I absolutely love this game: its gameplay is addictive, art direction and design are amazing: units, cities and heroes look pretty good if you are not trying to guess of how many polygons each model contains. With the last patch it is the way better balanced game than Heroes VI. Can't say the same about previous games. Expand
  18. Aug 2, 2012
    8
    The new races or factions that you could play in this were quite refreshing because, whilst it still had the good battle system and ideas behind the other HoMM games, there were other things to keep you interested in. They basically kept the bits of the game we liked and added more. The combat can be a little one-way though and it's quite simple, maybe add something besides rocks andThe new races or factions that you could play in this were quite refreshing because, whilst it still had the good battle system and ideas behind the other HoMM games, there were other things to keep you interested in. They basically kept the bits of the game we liked and added more. The combat can be a little one-way though and it's quite simple, maybe add something besides rocks and fallen trees to the battlefield. A good-game and it's balanced and extra-points for it being able to be played multi-player on a single computer by quite a few people. Expand
  19. Sep 4, 2013
    9
    I absolutely love this game, it looks great, fighting system is awesome, the only reason for not giving it a 10 is because the quests are often sort of the same and because the ultimate skill is nearly impossible to get. I have finished this game several times and I have never succeeded in getting the ultimate skill.
  20. Nov 13, 2012
    9
    This is one of the most addicting games I have ever played. Turn-based RPG, this game will suck your time away. I play it during class when I get bored and find myself looking for more time in the day to finish a game. The downsides to the game are core issues - if you get attacked by someone whose army is dramatically larger than yours, there is literally nothing you can do- you will loseThis is one of the most addicting games I have ever played. Turn-based RPG, this game will suck your time away. I play it during class when I get bored and find myself looking for more time in the day to finish a game. The downsides to the game are core issues - if you get attacked by someone whose army is dramatically larger than yours, there is literally nothing you can do- you will lose the game. This means that there are rarely any 'close' games. By the end of the game, one player is clearly dominating everyone else. That being said, it is fun to build up your massive army and rofl-stomp everyone else :) Expand
  21. Apr 9, 2013
    9
    In some ways even better legendanoy 3 part series in general a great game that can be safely recommended to all fans and fans of intellectual games.
  22. Aug 10, 2019
    8
    ///////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
  23. Feb 6, 2020
    8
    Almost as good as heroes 3. Battles are great, design of the castles is awesome, music is good, plot is a little straightforward, but decent nevertheless. Unlike other tries to continue original trilogy, this one didn't break all by careless innovating. Enjoyed it a lot!
  24. NinaAase
    Aug 10, 2006
    10
    I really love this game, I must say I am addicted to it. I have played a lot of games like this one, but nothing can beat Heroes of might and magic. I have played true the campaigns several times, and I still got things to learn. The game might be a little difficult. But still, it's worth it.
  25. ThomasV.
    May 22, 2006
    10
    A fantastic, involving and not to mention FUN game, full of replayability and strategy! I would say it's the best Heroes game yet, and one I'll have fun with for many, many years to come.
  26. SebastianA.
    May 25, 2006
    9
    It's eating too many computer resources for what it has to offer. Besides this, looks really cool.
  27. RL
    Jun 7, 2006
    9
    Give it a chance. If you're a HOMM 1-4 fan you'll enjoy this one.
  28. JeromeL.
    May 28, 2006
    9
    I've played the demo for one week straight! (finished playing at 3am every day) and now am starting the real campaign. Wonderfull graphics even on a 2 year-old PC and great gameplay - even if the game needs some practice for those who never played a game of the HOMM series. The interface is clear and has benefited from fans and community enhancements and extended beta-testing period. Enjoy!
  29. RenaldoC.
    May 27, 2006
    9
    This is the .... Planning an attack and executing can be so much fun if successful, and so much fun if failed providing the game is good enough! This is that game. Even when I fail miserably I find myself grinning ear to ear as I get my a** beat. THAT'S good gaming folks.
  30. BrianS.
    May 27, 2006
    9
    Who ever thought that resource gathering and planning into the minutea would be fun? When I think of RTS, I think "dry as unbuttered toast". This game however is deep and rich, with a full and intelligent storyline and deep, engaging game play. I'm seriously rethinking my old take on RTS games, I'll have to find more like this one!
  31. JessieL.
    Jun 22, 2006
    10
    Finally, my gaming life has meaning once more. In the past years i have been disapointed with the games i have played, but this one has brought back my intrest. Great game ... an inspiration ... best game I have ever played.
  32. Jan 22, 2018
    8
    Качественный переход в 3D, фактически 3 Герои только на новом движке, отличное продолжение серии после ужасной 4 части.
  33. Feb 11, 2019
    9
    I had so much fun playing this game. Really good gameplay, fun races, characters ...
  34. Mar 19, 2019
    8
    This is the first game i have played with in the heroes series. This is a good strategy game. I really liked it. It has very good graphics, even if the game is old. i was very calm when i played with it. It has good atmosphere.
  35. Dec 20, 2020
    8
    В аудио-визуальном стиле нравится меньше, чем третья. Но в геймплейном плане лучшая часть серии. К сожалению дополнения понесло в другую степь.
  36. Jul 22, 2021
    8
    good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good hmm 5
  37. Nov 30, 2017
    9
    9.5 out of 10
    Pretty much same old Heroes 3 in 3D, with few improvements to classic gameplay: better leveling system for heroes, alternative upgrades for units, finally nerfed Necropolis)
  38. Oct 11, 2020
    10
    This was one of the best games I have ever played.
    New awesome animations, interesting plot, the sense of epic events and brilliant skills tree made this game so remarkable that I still look for something similar to it.
  39. Apr 8, 2018
    9
    This is one of the games I've gotten the most fun out of recently. The gameplay is incredibly entertaining, the campaign is great and I like almost everything about this game. The thing I enjoy the most about it is probably building your heroes' skills - there are many possibilities and later in the game a well built hero with the right skills can be the turning point of a battle. TheThis is one of the games I've gotten the most fun out of recently. The gameplay is incredibly entertaining, the campaign is great and I like almost everything about this game. The thing I enjoy the most about it is probably building your heroes' skills - there are many possibilities and later in the game a well built hero with the right skills can be the turning point of a battle. The magic in the game is amazing and so are the creatures (especially for a fantasy fan like me). While I haven't played other HOMM games and can't compare this to them, I can certainly say this is one of the best, underrated games I've come across. Definitely worth playing in my opinion. Unlike most games I've played I cannot think of a major problem with this one. The only things keeping this game from a 10 rating in my opinion are some minor issues that can be overlooked. Expand
  40. Feb 23, 2019
    8
    The game sometimes looked too difficult for me. I've spent many hours playing this game with my friends.
  41. Oct 19, 2018
    10
    Every fan was waiting for 3D version for sooooo long and eventually we got it. Had a lot of fun playing it and definitely recommend to try it to everyone interested in strategies
  42. Oct 10, 2020
    8
    Great graphics and design. I always enjoyed Heroes V, and find myself liking it the best in the franchise.
  43. Oct 7, 2019
    8
    In general, an interesting company and good work on graphics, but I really do not like such a toy-inflatable style. And some of the monsters in general had repel appearance. As a result, this game did not take root in my soul, and I just went through the company of the game, and returned to the third part.
  44. Feb 18, 2019
    10
    Najlepsza z serii Heroes(na równi z częścią trzecią). Masa modyfikacji, gra ciągle żyje i się rozwija. polecam kazdemu
  45. Dec 17, 2019
    9
    Solid gameplay, absolutely gorgeous music, the plot is interesting but the writing is mostly bad.
  46. Jan 31, 2020
    10
    Очень люблю эту игру!
    У неё отличная атмосфера, прекрасная музыка, хороший визуал.
    Очень хочется ремейк этой красоты!
  47. Apr 8, 2020
    8
    OST, Campaign, variety, overworld and much more is on point. I have nothing but good memories.
  48. May 12, 2020
    8
    Some great ideas mixed with some bad implementation. Long waiting time for end turn, abandoning hex grid and somehow a slower flow make it still inferior to Heroes 3. Heroes 5.5 mod is a very good addition, but by changing the hero classes and ultimate skills it is somehow less attractive (but more balanced)
  49. Jun 9, 2020
    9
    A good start HEROES OF MIGHT AND MAGIC V. I went through the plot about 10 times, probably the best plot from the trilogy. But still 9, since the gameplay was worse than in the following parts of the trilogy.
  50. Mar 29, 2021
    8
    I have played this game so many times since its launch, and the DLC too. I consider this one of the best strategy games of all time, and the last good one of the franchise. It improves on every mechanic that came before, as well as having great artwork and great balancing. The AI lacks a bit.
  51. Jun 14, 2021
    8
    Это отличная колборация 3 и 4 части героев с хорошей боевой системой, которая заменила мне 4-ку.
  52. Dec 15, 2020
    10
    The best HoMM game, and the last good game in the series. I've enjoyed 5 far more than 3 or 4. Also has incredible soundtrack that brings a nostalgic tear to my eye and an artstyle that still hold up well in 2020. Simple but incredibly addictive gameplay, to the point where I want to jump back into a new match right after I finished a 5-hour LAN party. All around a much more fun andThe best HoMM game, and the last good game in the series. I've enjoyed 5 far more than 3 or 4. Also has incredible soundtrack that brings a nostalgic tear to my eye and an artstyle that still hold up well in 2020. Simple but incredibly addictive gameplay, to the point where I want to jump back into a new match right after I finished a 5-hour LAN party. All around a much more fun and memorable game than any other in the series. 5.5 mod makes it even better, in addition to still having a friendly and active community. Expand
  53. May 19, 2023
    8
    Pretty good game. I did't finish that one. I liked 3D graphics. Interesting cities - nice animation and music during vising a given city
  54. May 29, 2021
    8
    although this used to be my fave from the series over the years it just began feeling buggy and slow but other than that it's so f-ing good! the base game has it's charm but the second expansion is what makes it that good
  55. Apr 20, 2021
    10
    Been passionate for this game when it was released in 2006 and it gave me much joy. Recently I began following homm3 streamers and I couldnt help but notice how much more complex and dynamic the combat system was in homm5 (as people love to compare these two titles).

    On a well balanced custom made map (maps in the vanilla are ok for casual players) this game truly shines. The skill tree
    Been passionate for this game when it was released in 2006 and it gave me much joy. Recently I began following homm3 streamers and I couldnt help but notice how much more complex and dynamic the combat system was in homm5 (as people love to compare these two titles).

    On a well balanced custom made map (maps in the vanilla are ok for casual players) this game truly shines. The skill tree depth along the interesting unit abilities are superb and allow hours and hours of replayability.

    The expansions made it even better. The dwarves and their runic system allowed a very rewarding gameplay.
    Expand
  56. Feb 8, 2023
    8
    Весьма неплохая заявка на продолжение серии. Вполне удачный баланс между откатом к третьей части и нововведениями. Играется приятно.
  57. Jan 14, 2022
    10
    I know that many people like Heroes 3, but for me Heroes 5 is a game of my childhood that I have tried many times. Excellent and interesting plot, cool fights between heroes and simple creatures, generally 10/10
    In my opinion, the best game of the series.
  58. Jan 27, 2022
    9
    Story: 80/100
    Gameplay: 100/100
    Graphics: 90/100
    Music/Soundtrack: 100/100
    Main Character(s): 80/100
    Side Characters: 60/100
    Regular Enemies: 100/100
    Bosses/Boss fights: 100/100
    World/Level Design: 90/100
    Playability (Bugs and optimization after patches): 90/100
    Would I Play It Again?: Yes
    Where Does It Rank In My Top 500 Video Games of All Time List?: 19

    Rating: 90/100
  59. Jan 31, 2022
    10
    My absolute favorite Heroes of Might and Magic game, best castle designs, best creature designs, combat is solid and fun. Very good game!
  60. May 26, 2022
    8
    Это было очень давно и очень хорошо очень весело и мы сидим такие играем дааа было время а вы что всё стреляете ?
  61. Oct 12, 2022
    10
    Best game in the series in my opinion. Timeless artwork, interesting gameplay on the map and in combat, well-balanced and diverse factions, compared to the third game in the series. Campaign is fun and multiplayer is great. If you like any turn-based strategy games you should give it a try.
Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 41 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 29 out of 41
  2. Negative: 0 out of 41
  1. You simply have to have the willingness to learn and give this game a chance. If you do this, you will be rewarded with an amazing strategy experience.
  2. 70
    The biggest failing of Heroes V, which you can almost anticipate from its emphasis on looking so good, is that it's stingy with information.
  3. Skeptical Heroes fans, as well as anyone looking for a fun, long-lasting turn-based strategy game, will likely be pleasantly surprised by this one.