An announcement on the MSN Games site reveals that at the end of January 2006, Heroes of Might and Magic III will no longer be supported by the Zone. Other popular games (including some Microsoft titles) such as Flight Simulator 2002, Axis and Allies, Total Annihilation and Mechcommander 2 will also be dropped. The Web site doesn't mention the reason behind the sudden change, but recommends trying their free online games instead.

With the fall of Heat and Mplayer, the Zone quickly became the most popular online service for Heroes players, and was widely used for tournament play, including Wake of Gods games. Many were disappointed that Heroes IV required the use of GameSpy Arcade to find an opponent online. Now, unless you might to rely on message boards, GameSpy Arcade becomes your only option. Thanks to Russ for the heads-up.