In terms of gameplay, Warlords IV offers a subtle mix of fantasy turn-based strategies such as Heroes of Might and Magic and Age of Wonders. The good thing is that the game features its own gameplay style, which cannot be found in either of the aforementioned titles. Although moving units across the 2D map is very similar to Heroes, the battles are handled in a completely different manner. Instead of placing your units around the battlefield through the old hex-grid (or square-grid) system, the combat revolves around two specific melee units, while ranged units act as back up. This particular method of turn-based combat appeared like a much-needed refreshment to the genre. Over time it gets easier to grasp all the rules of the game. Actions such as sending specific units into the fray, casting appropriate spells, using the hero's special abilities are easy to learn. The entire system was devised so players can go through battles carefully, with enough time to decide which hero or unit should head off into action.