HeroQuest

Games Workshop Ltd., Milton Bradley, Avalon Hill · Board game · 1989
2–5 · best 5 90 min Weight 2.1/5
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
8.2 rating Ludopedia
7.2 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you're into classic dungeon crawling and want a game that paved the way for many others, HeroQuest is your go-to! It balances simplicity and immersion in a way few games can.

Highlights
  • Classic dungeon adventure
  • Easy to learn
  • Immersive components
  • Engaging campaign
  • Fun for all ages
Keep in mind
  • Can be repetitive
  • One player is the villain
  • Relies on dice luck
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step Check out our complete step-by-step rules guide.
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About the game
HeroQuest is a classic dungeon-crawling adventure game that has captivated generations, serving as a perfect bridge between tabletop RPGs and board games. One player takes on the role of the Evil Sorcerer (also known as Zargon or Morcar), the game master who controls monsters and reveals the labyrinthine dungeon as the heroes progress. The other players choose from four iconic classes – Barbarian, Dwarf, Elf, or Wizard – and embark on fantastic quests filled with dangers and treasures. The game unfolds on a modular board representing the interior of a dungeon or castle, with walls dividing the space into rooms and corridors. The Evil Sorcerer uses a quest book to position monsters, artifacts, and doors, as well as guide the overall objective of the adventure. During their turn, a hero can move and perform an action, such as attacking, casting a spell, searching for traps and secret doors, or looking for treasure. The campaign consists of a series of interconnected quests, where items and gold acquired can be carried over to subsequent adventures. The game ends when all heroes return to the spiral staircase, exit through a door, or are defeated by the Evil Sorcerer. If the quest's objective is not met, victory goes to the Evil Sorcerer. HeroQuest is a gateway to a universe of fantasy and strategy, with simplified rules that make it accessible to new players, yet with enough depth to keep veterans engaged.
Rules videos

In English

Rules manual
Rules manual — HeroQuest English · PDF
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Game details

Families

Category: Dungeon Crawler Components: Miniatures Components: Player Screens Game: HeroQuest Mechanism: Campaign Games Misc: Dice Tower Hall of Fame Players: Games with expansions that add solo play Players: One versus Many Setting: Warhammer Fantasy Board Games Theme: Medieval Fantasy
Publisher Games Workshop Ltd., Milton Bradley, Avalon Hill, Estrela, El Greco, Hasbro
Designer Stephen Baker
Artist Gary Chalk, Les Edwards, Max Dunbar, Nikki Dawes
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players does HeroQuest support, and what's the average game duration?
HeroQuest is ideal for 2 to 5 players. A game typically lasts between 90 and 90 minutes, depending on the mission's complexity and the group's experience.
What is the complexity level of HeroQuest's rules?
The game is considered light to medium complexity (BGG weight 2.1284/5). The rules are very accessible, making it a great entry point into the dungeon crawler genre and RPGs.
Is HeroQuest a cooperative game?
Yes, it's a semi-cooperative game. One player takes on the role of the Evil Sorcerer (the 'villain'), while the other players cooperate as heroes to complete the mission objectives.
Are the components of the Brazilian version different from the original?
The classic Brazilian version by Estrela (1994) had some adaptations, such as cardboard miniatures instead of plastic and different dice. More recent Hasbro editions (released from 2021 onwards) feature high-quality plastic miniatures, aligned with the international version.
Does the game have expansions or additional content?
Absolutely! HeroQuest has several expansions that add new quests, monsters, artifacts, and even hero classes, greatly expanding replayability and narrative. The 'Adventure Design Kit' also offered material to create your own adventures.
Who is HeroQuest most recommended for?
It is highly recommended for anyone looking for a classic fantasy adventure experience, dungeon crawler fans, players who want an introduction to the tabletop RPG universe, or those seeking a family-friendly game with a touch of strategy and lots of fun.