Over three decades ago, HeroQuest burst onto the scene as one of the pioneering dungeon-crawling board games, capturing the thrill and peril of tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons. This game allowed players to step into the shoes of iconic characters such as the powerful Barbarian or the magical Elf, enabling them to live out their heroic fantasies in a compact two-hour session, a stark contrast to the lengthy afternoon sessions typical of traditional TTRPGs. HeroQuest's appeal was further enhanced by its extensive collection of plastic miniatures and its engaging multi-quest narrative, which fostered a dedicated fanbase that continued to champion the game long after its initial release. When Hasbro revisited the idea of bringing HeroQuest back through its HasLab crowdfunding platform, the enthusiastic response from fans was overwhelming, leading to the game's triumphant return.
Today, both new and veteran fans can immerse themselves in the world of HeroQuest with the re-released game and its array of expansions. This buyer's guide is designed to assist you in planning your adventures as you join forces to defeat the nefarious Zargon and thwart his sinister plans.
HeroQuest Game System
HeroQuest Game System
5See it at AmazonMSRP:$134.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 14 new quests65+ miniatures (31 monsters, 4 heroes, 15 furniture pieces, 19 skull pieces, 4 rats, 21 doors)GameboardGame Master screen93 cards
The cornerstone of your HeroQuest experience is the HeroQuest Game System. This is the essential starting point, as all subsequent expansions build upon it. Without this core set, you won't be able to enjoy the additional content.
HeroQuest First Light
HeroQuest First Light Board Game
1See it at TargetMSRP:$49.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 10 unique questsGame system rulebookDouble-sided gameboardGame Master’s screen5 miniatures1 pad of character sheets6 combat dice2 movement dice39 cardboard pieces102 cards52 plastic movers31 monster tokens15 furniture tokens41 cardboard tiles21 dungeon door tokens
For those new to HeroQuest, the high cost of entry can be daunting. Enter HeroQuest: First Light, which offers a more affordable way to dive into the game. This version streamlines the production to reduce costs, using cardboard tokens instead of plastic miniatures for many game elements, except for the core hero characters and the impressive dragon miniature. While First Light is a great entry point for newcomers, existing fans might only need it for its unique quests or additional hero figures to paint. Importantly, First Light is fully compatible with all other HeroQuest content, making it an excellent starting point for those unsure about their commitment to the game.
The App
MSRP: Free
For groups without a designated Game Master or solo adventurers, the official HeroQuest companion app is a game-changer. This free app automates the role of Zargon, complete with voiced descriptions, enhancing the overall experience. It's compatible with all HeroQuest expansions, making it a valuable tool for any player.
The Online Quests
MSRP: Free
Avalon Hill has enriched the HeroQuest universe with free downloadable quests available on HasbroPulse's website. These quests, such as the prequel "A New Beginning," add depth to the game's lore and provide additional adventures that utilize resources from various HeroQuest products.
The Boxed Expansions
Kellar’s Keep
HeroQuest: Kellar's Keep Expansion
2See it at AmazonMSRP:$33.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 10 new quests19 miniatures (8 orcs, 6 goblins, 3 abominations, 2 doors)Sheet of cardboard tiles14 cards
Kellar's Keep is the first expansion for HeroQuest and offers a lighter experience compared to other expansions. It's a faithful re-release of the original 90s expansion, providing a seamless continuation of the base game with familiar monster miniatures. It's perfect for those seeking more HeroQuest without a significant increase in difficulty.
Return of the Witch Lord
HeroQuest: Return of The Witch Lord Quest Pack
2See it at AmazonMSRP:$33.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 10 new quests18 miniatures (8 skeletons, 4 mummies, 4 zombies, 2 doors)Sheet of cardboard tiles14 cards
The Return of the Witch Lord expansion brings back the undead forces of the Witch Lord, offering new quests and miniatures similar to those in the base game. It includes unique tiles and a sense of narrative closure that ties together the base game and Kellar's Keep, forming a cohesive trilogy.
Prophecy of Telor
HeroQuest: Prophecy of Telor Quest Pack
1See it at AmazonMSRP:$33.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 13 new questsNew Warlock class15 miniatures (13 translucent orange enemy minis, 2 warlock character minis)Set of 6 translucent orange D6 Dice14 cards
Previously exclusive to the Mythic tier on HasLab, Prophecy of Telor is now available to all. It introduces the Warlock class, translucent orange monsters, and dice, adding a new layer of excitement to your adventures. The Warlock's ability to transform into a demonic form offers fresh strategic options.
Spirit Queen’s Torment
HeroQuest: Spirit Queen's Torment Quest Pack
2See it at AmazonMSRP:$33.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 14 new questsNew Bard class15 miniatures (14 translucent teal enemy minis, 1 bard character mini)Set of 6 translucent teal D6 Dice15 cards
Similar to Prophecy of Telor, Spirit Queen's Torment offers translucent teal monsters and dice, along with the new Bard class. This expansion delves into dark magic and mysterious locations, allowing players to explore new adventures and utilize the Bard's unique abilities to influence the battlefield.
Against the Ogre Horde
Heroquest: Against The Ogre Horde Quest Pack
1See it at AmazonMSRP:$44.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 10 new questsNew Druids class28 miniatures2 sheets of cardboard tiles29 cards
For those who relish combat, Against the Ogre Horde is a must-have. This expansion, a remaster of a classic module, introduces the Druid class and a host of new miniatures, including imposing Ogres and a massive throne. It's perfect for fans who enjoy crafting their own quests.
The Mage in the Mirror
HeroQuest: The Mage of The Mirror Quest Pack
1See it at AmazonMSRP:$44.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 10 new quests33 miniaturesSheet of cardboard tiles35 cards
The Mage in the Mirror expansion introduces the Realm of Reflection, where heroes must save a princess, find a legendary sword, and battle an evil archmage. It includes new cards for the Elf class and detailed environment objects, setting the stage for the story's conclusion in the Rise of the Dread Moon expansion.
Rise of the Dread Moon
HeroQuest Rise of The Dread Moon Quest Pack
3See it at AmazonMSRP:$44.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 10 new questsNew Knight class29 miniaturesSheet of cardboard tiles58 cards
Continuing the story from The Mage in the Mirror, Rise of the Dread Moon introduces new mechanics, the Knight class, and a variety of new tiles and miniatures. It's ideal for fans who enjoy creating their own quests, but for the best narrative experience, it's recommended to play through The Mage in the Mirror first.
The Frozen Horror
HeroQuest: The Frozen Horror Quest Pack
0See it at AmazonMSRP:$44.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 10 new quests23 miniaturesSheet of cardboard tiles35 cards6 combat dice2 movement dice1 pad of character sheets
The Frozen Horror expansion takes players into the icy wastelands, offering a focused experience for Barbarian fans with a new miniature and body type. It features unique monster sculpts and introduces solo character quests before group adventures resume, making it a thrilling addition for those who enjoy a challenge.
Jungles of Delthrak
HeroQuest Jungles of Delthrak Quest Pack
0See it at AmazonMSRP:$44.99 USD
1-5 players (solo play requires the free HeroQuest companion app)Ages 14+Contents
Quest book w/ 16 new quests29 miniatures (8 orcs, 6 goblins, 3 abominations, 2 doors)39 cardboard pieces36 cards
The Jungles of Delthrak expansion transports players to a lush, dangerous environment filled with poisonous snakes, spiders, and ancient ruins. It introduces the Berserker and Explorer classes and offers a rich narrative centered around retrieving a powerful artifact and combating the Dread Blight.
Character Packs
Hero Collection: Rogue Heir of Elethorn
HeroQuest Hero Collection: The Rogue Heir of Elethorn Figures
1See it at AmazonMSRP:$14.99 USD
Contents
New Rogue class2 miniatures (2 different body sculpts for the Rogue)13 cards (12 game cards, 1 story card)
The Rogue Heir of Elethorn character pack adds a stealthy assassin to your party, complete with two different body sculpts and cards that enhance their abilities with throwing daggers and multi-target attacks. While it lacks a dedicated quest, it's a valuable addition for those looking to diversify their team.
Hero Collection: Path of the Wandering Monk
HeroQuest Hero Collection: Path of The Wandering Monk Figures
2See it at AmazonMSRP:$14.99 USD
Contents
New Monk class2 miniatures (2 different body sculpts for the Monk)8 game cards1 scroll prop
The Path of the Wandering Monk introduces a unique class that harnesses the elements of wind, water, earth, and fire. The Monk's abilities offer versatile utility, from navigating traps to unleashing powerful energy blasts. While it doesn't include a dedicated quest, the Monk's distinct playstyle makes it a compelling choice for any party.
The End
Hasbro and Avalon Hill continue to support HeroQuest, ensuring that both new and returning players can enjoy this timeless game. As a new generation discovers the joys of dungeon diving and learning from the wise Mentor, HeroQuest remains a beloved classic in the board gaming community. While the game's mechanics may be simpler for seasoned players, the community's wealth of custom rules and quests offers endless possibilities. The future of HeroQuest looks bright, promising many more adventures to come.