Fire Emblem Heroes Beginner's Guide: How to fight your way to victory

Fire Emblem Heroes, Nintendo's latest mobile offering, arrived today on both iOS and Android. It's a lighter version of the classic Fire Emblem games, though the core tactical RPG mechanics are still there. It's a great gateway game for people who are interested in the series, but don't know much about it. Heroes combines tactical combat with Japanese gacha monetization mechanics. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed, we have a few tips to get you started.

Pay attention to strengths and weaknesses

Units have their own distinct strengths and weaknesses based on a color wheel. Red units (generally sword users) beat green units (axes), while green units can beat blue units (javelins). Different schools of magic also follow under each of these colors. Ranged weapons, like bows and shuriken, are grey, but they're highly effective against flying units.

Also worth noting -- before you select a story section to play, the menu will display which units you'll be facing off against in little weapon icons next to the chapter's designated level. Build up your team so that you're well matched against them and you'll have a much easier time.

Don't leave more vulnerable allies stranded

Plan carefully before moving your units across the map. You want to make sure that you're healers, mages, and ranged attackers aren't surrounded alone by swarms of enemies once your turn is over. This can lead to some unnecessary deaths. Keep your softer friends behind the melee attackers so they can work their magic from afar without losing a lot of health.

Build a balanced team

As you summon new characters, you'll gain access to a growing range of units with their own unique set of abilities. You can only bring four characters with you into battle, so make sure they can complement each other in battle. You don't want a party of just magic users, just like you wouldn't want a party of pure tank characters either. Feel free to try different combinations, but diversity is key here.

Fire Emblem can seem a bit overwhelming if you've never played a game of this kind before, but following these tips will ensure that you're well equipped to face the game's early challenges while you learn the ropes.

Are you a Fire Emblem Fanatic? Share your own advice in the comments below!