Might and Magic IV: Clouds of Xeen

New World Computing

Industry	Video game development
Headquarters	United States
Products	Might and Magic IV: Clouds of Xeen

Might and Magic IV: Clouds of Xeen (initially released as Might and Magic: Clouds of Xeen) represents the fourth entry in the Might and Magic franchise developed by New World Computing.

Plot

After the storyline of Might and Magic III, turmoil emerges in Xeen when Lord Xeen captures Crodo, the overseer of the region, sparking widespread disorder. A fresh party of heroes is tasked with confronting him to protect both the Clouds of Xeen and the subterranean settlement known as Shangri-La.

Gameplay

The game engine powering Might and Magic IV is an evolution of that used in Might and Magic III: Isles of Terra, maintaining similar mechanics but incorporating a stronger focus on cutscenes, facilitated by advancements in hard drives capacity.

This title can be merged with its follow-up, Might and Magic V: Darkside of Xeen, forming the expanded experience titled World of Xeen. This combined version unlocks additional regions and multiple conclusions, including a distinct finale. Both games were originally distributed on floppy disks before being reissued on CD-ROM, becoming among the earliest Western titles to feature CD technology alongside fully voiced dialogue.

New gameplay elements introduced include a dedicated notes feature for recording quests, hints, passwords, and important locations; selectable difficulty options labeled Adventurer or Warrior that influence enemy strength; and a separate inventory compartment specifically for quest-related items to avoid accidental loss.

Reception

In 1993, Computer Gaming World reviewer Scorpia observed that Clouds of Xeen offered limited narrative complexity and minimal world-building, consistent with previous series installments. She criticized the final outcome as overly dependent on possessing a particular item, which diminished the dramatic effect of the concluding battle. Nevertheless, she recommended the title to committed Might & Magic enthusiasts and advised experiencing it together with Might & Magic V: Darkside of Xeen for the best overall experience.

The same year, Dragon issue #191 granted a perfect 5-star rating. The 1994 compilation Might and Magic: World of Xeen, which combined both Clouds of Xeen and Dark Side of Xeen, received a 3-star rating from Sandy Petersen in Dragon #201.

Barry Brenesal from PC Magazine praised the game as "well crafted and visually entertaining," though he mentioned that some players might find it lacking in challenge due to straightforward puzzles. He recommended it as an enjoyable demonstration of New World Computing’s creative vision.

See also

• World of Xeen