While it retains some of its predecessor’s flaws, that’s part of the charm.
HeroQuest may not be the first dungeon crawler to grace shelves, but it’s arguably the best known.
Does it deserve a place amongst the annals of thebest board games?
Gameplay
The original HeroQuest had a lot in common with Talisman’s 1983 edition.
Both see you battling through a series of fiendish traps whilst leveling up.
But for my money, HeroQuest was the better game and that holds true for the modern versions.
Yes, attacks are still at the mercy of dice, and movement is decided by rolling.
This is undeniably frustrating, especially when compared to competitors likeGloomhaven: Jaws of the Lion.
There’s a wealth of enemies to fight complete with their own characterful miniatures and upgrades to nab too.
Plus, the weapon you use and the direction you’re attacking from matters.
Particularly when someone takes on the role of Zargon.
Well, sort of.
In many ways, it’s a taste of what thebest D&D booksare like.
It’s exactly the same kind of role, but across a far more varied world.
Should you buy HeroQuest?
I suppose you could say that the best thing about HeroQuest is that it’s back.
4/5
Accessibility
It’s more involved than some board games, true, but is very accommodating nonetheless.
3.5/5
Replayability
HeroQuest’s singular board does limit its replayability somewhat, but numerous missions and expansions help.
Component quality
A new aesthetic, gorgeous miniatures, and excellent production values throughout help HeroQuest sing.
How we tested HeroQuest
This review was made using a sample provided by the publisher.
For more recommendations, why not check out thebest adult board gamesor thebest cooperative board games?
