Crimson Caldera Ep 8 – Risen Hall Siege & Frostling Ascension | Age of Wonders 4

Описание: The march through the volcanic expanse of the Crimson Caldera moves to its next escalation as Risen Hall becomes the newest objective on the campaign map. The city is approached without extensive pillaging; overwhelming force and precise tactical execution carry the assault. Three defending armies fall with no casualties suffered, further strengthening the momentum of expansion.

During the campaign, the revelation of a ruler’s soul being bound to a demonic pact creates an unusual opportunity: by shattering three ritual circles, another ruler may be dealt with by offering an alternative soul. Caldera realms often include occult side paths that blend narrative choice with mechanical advantage, and this one is among the more unusual. Many realms introduce rare questlines tied to fiendish bargains, ancient wonders, or planar distortions; Crimson Caldera — with its hellscape topography — leans heavily into such flavor.

A new tome is selected for research: the Tome of the Cold Dark, unlocking Frostling transformation. Transformations can dramatically reshape an empire’s roster, altering resistances, visuals, and synergies across both units and cities. Frostling traits often introduce chilling defensive bonuses and thematic alignment toward wintry magic.

Stranglehold is integrated fully into the empire, expanding the economic base. Cities are pushed outward into new sectors to accelerate production and resource diversity. Empire development points are invested, further enhancing strategic, economic, and magical capabilities.

Risen Hall now stands on the brink of vassalage, and the empire continues its advance with widening dominance.
(Trivia: In previous Age of Wonders titles, Frostlings originated as a full playable race in AoW1 and AoW2, known for their cold-oriented abilities and winter-themed units such as Ice Queens and Yetis. Their return as a transformation in AoW4 is a nod to that legacy.)