Mythology of Might and Magic: Manticore

The Manticore is a mythical creature from Persian mythology, often depicted as having the body of a lion, a human head with three rows of sharp teeth, and sometimes bat-like wings. It’s said to have a voice that sounds like a trumpet.

Legends describe it as a fearsome predator, capable of devouring humans whole. The Manticore has appeared in various forms in different cultures’ folklore throughout history.

Manticore from Forgotten Realms, 2nd edition.

Manticore from Forgotten Realms, 2nd edition.

In addition to its lion-like body and human head with three rows of sharp teeth, the Manticore is often described as having a tail with either venomous spines or the ability to shoot venomous spikes at its prey.

The word manticore itself is an adaption of the Persian name for the beast – martichoras. This is thought to loosely translate to ‘man eater.’

The creature has been featured in various ancient texts and myths, often portrayed as a symbol of ferocity and danger. In some legends, it was said to inhabit remote areas like forests or caves, lurking to ambush unsuspecting travelers.

Manticore's artwork from the game manual by George Almond.

Manticore’s artwork from the game manual by George Almond.

Manticore mythology vs. HoMM3

Origin:Persian mythology
First appearance:HoMM III (Dungeon)

In Heroes of Might and Magic III, the Manticore is a creature featured in the Dungeon faction. It’s depicted as a large, winged creature with the body and face of a lion, similar to traditional depictions. In the game, Manticores are fragile flying units with low stats for a level 6 creature, especially in health.

Manticores and their venomous cousins, the scorpicores, have features combined of bat, lion and scorpion. They attack with stabs from their stinging tails. Scorpicore attacks have a 20% chance of paralyzing an opponent. Creatures thus petrified take 50% damage and are unfrozen when attacked or after three rounds.

This may also be due to the fact that the Manticore was originally planned as a ranged unit. In the game files it is possible to find the sound of shooting and melee attack animation using claws, which is not used in the game at all.

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