RPG Icon Rejoins Franchise He Helped Create 40 Years Ago as Advisor for Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era

Jon Van Caneghem, the founder of New World Computing and co-creator of the iconic Might and Magic series, is making a long-awaited return to the franchise after decades away. He will serve as a creative advisor for the upcoming turn-based prequel, Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era.

According to a recent announcement, this advisory role will complement the existing support the development team receives from the current IP holder. In 2025, this IP holder revealed plans for a Might and Magic trading card game featuring an “optional Web3 layer,” while also making cuts to its workforce and adjusting its release schedule.

In contrast, Olden Era’s developer, Unfrozen, appears to have a more dedicated vision, stating in its Steam description that the game will be “built on the familiar foundations of some of the most critically acclaimed strategy games of all time.” With Caneghem’s involvement, fans are hopeful that this goal will be further solidified.

“It is a great pleasure to see the world I built all those years ago thrive and be a part of so many people’s memories,” Caneghem expressed. “I’m very glad to be able to contribute to it once again and walk this road with all of you who made Might and Magic into the legendary series it is today.”

Unfrozen CEO Denis Fedorov shared his excitement about Caneghem’s return, noting, “It has been over 20 years since the last time he participated in the creation of a game in the Heroes universe. Jon is an incredible, talented man and a true legend for all the fans of the franchise whose craftsmanship inspired me to be where I am.”

“With Jon’s assistance,” he added, “we aim to bring you another great Heroes of Might and Magic game not only in terms of content but also in worldbuilding, alongside the guidance from the current IP holder.”

After revisiting Heroes 3 for the first time in two decades, I can’t help but feel that Heroes of Might and Magic: Olden Era might already be on track to surpass it.