H.E.R.O. [Windows remake]

H.E.R.O. is a homebrew remake for Windows of the classic 1984 Activision title, originally released for the Atari 2600 — one of the most memorable games on the platform, if not the most iconic, and a title that helped shape its genre. It was developed by Langford Productions and initially released on March 23, 2025.

This recreation faithfully preserves the core of the original platforming game: you control Roderick Hero, a brave rescuer equipped with a jetpack, a laser-visor helmet, and explosive charges, tasked with saving trapped miners in dangerous caverns filled with giant spiders, snakes, and treacherous obstacles.

This H.E.R.O. fangame is based on the ZX Spectrum version and retains the simple 2D visuals, now enhanced with improvements that modernize the experience without compromising its classic charm. The mechanics have also been reworked — mastering the jetpack controls is highly recommended to overcome the challenges and rescue the survivors!

You can download this free game here!

Video

Plot

Roderick Hero, at your service. Please, call me R. Hero.

Everyone does. I wish to address myself to fledgling Heroes and all-round good guys everywhere. A crisis is afoot, affording me an ideal opportunity to share a few of the finer points of heroic endeavor with you. Do pay attention.

Volcanic activity has trapped miners in mineshafts in Mount Leone. I shall use equipment (some think it rather nifty) of my own invention to help miners no mere mortal can reach. It would give me great pleasure to have your help.

About the game

H.E.R.O. first appeared on the Atari 2600 way back in 1984. Written by John Van Ryzin it was considered one of the best games on that machine. The game was converted to most home computers, including the Sinclair Spectrum, that version being the inspiration for this remake.

Tip: Take time to familiarise yourself with the prop-pack controls before embarking on your adventure. The physics takes some mastering!