Starting Out
Where to begin
There's never been a better time to start playing HeroQuest!
As of January 2025 there are TWO starting points!
- HeroQuest Game System (sometimes called Core Game)
- HeroQuest Game System: First Light
The Core Game is the 2021 re-release of the original 1989 version. It contains miniatures of all heroes, monsters, and furniture. Along with dice, cards, cardboard tiles and a 14 quest questbook.
It retails for around $135 USD, but is usually under $100 USD on Amazon.
If you want a great introduction to the Core Game System, you can't find a better resource than Elvyler's Game Room!
If you like what you see, please consider using their affiliate links to purchase the game or expansions!
First Light is new in 2025. It contains minitures of all heroes (alternate sculpts to the Core Game) and a new Dragon figure. Along with dice, cards, cardboard tiles (including furniture), and monster standees. It also includes a two-sided gameboard (the second side is unique to First Light), and 10 brand new quests that take place around the same timeframe as the Core Game's quests.
It retails for around $50 USD.
Where you start depends on your personal tastes and budget. For what it is worth I would recommend starting with the Core Game. For the $40 USD or so price increase, you get minis of every monster and the furniture, plus slightly more quests.
If you are not sure if HeroQuest is right for you, are on a tighter budget, or would rather have a smaller game system (for storage and/or travel), then First Light is a great option!
If you already have the Core Game, in my opinion, it is worth picking up First Light as well. The quests are top notch and it's easy to carry over to a friend's house to get them hooked on HeroQuest as well!
Wherever you start, you are sure to have a great time. And the best part about HeroQuest is the community! Welcome!