H.E.R.O. for Windows

H.E.R.O. is a homebrew recreation for Windows of the Activision‘s 1984 Atari 2600 classic, one of the most memorable games on this 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 free remake faithfully reproduces the core of the original platformer: you control Roderick Hero, an intrepid protector equipped with a jetpack, a helmet with a laser visor and explosive charges, tasked with rescuing miners trapped in dangerous caves, full of giant spiders, snakes and treacherous obstacles.

Based on the ZX Spectrum port, this H.E.R.O. fangame maintains its simple 2D visuals, but with improvements that modernize the experience without compromising the traditional charm. The mechanics have also been revised — it is advisable to master the thruster controls to overcome the challenges and save the survivors!

Videos

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 familiarize yourself with the prop-pack controls before embarking on your adventure. The physics takes some mastering!

Synopsis

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. І 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.

Screenshots

More info and H.E.R.O

• Langford Productions – Official developer’s website, with more info about this and other works, which are of several natures.
• H.E.R.O. [Windows remake] @ VaLeW Free Games – More info.
• H.E.R.O. [Remake para Windows] @ Gaming Room – Source, with more info and media. In Portuguese.
• The Deep Caves
• The Deep Caves 3
• H.E.R.O.I. [H.E.R.O. remake]
• The Deep Caves 2