It's the summer of superhero games, with shipments on Marvel HeroClix just now catching up to demand (see 'WizKids Plans DC HeroClix Launch'), a number of new games out and more on the way.  The revival of Hero Games' 'Hero System' by new owner DOJ, Inc. (see 'New Owners Revive Hero Games') has been getting a strong reception, with the first printings of Hero System 5th Edition and Ultimate Martial Artist each selling out in a couple of weeks and going back to press.  After a couple of other Hero System products (Hero System Bestiary and Hero System Resource Kit), the big event occurs when the new edition of Champions is released.  As the longest-running, most popular superhero RPG, Champions will be a welcome returnee to the shelves of game stores. 

 

Also due in 2002 from DOJ are two other Champions releases--The New Champions Universe, the first setting book for Champions (scheduled for fall), and Conquerors, Killers, and Crooks, a Champions enemies book (also fall).  Star Hero and Ninja Hero, other genre books for the Hero System, are scheduled for late 2002 or early 2003. 

 

In other superhero RPG news, Cyber Age Adventures has changed its name to iHero Entertainment (no relation) and announced the iHero RPG.  iHero will also be producing an iHero tarot deck in association with U.S. Games Systems. 

 

The Godlike RPG core rulebook is out ('Superhero Roleplaying in a World on Fire 1936-1946').  Two other Godlike products are scheduled for this year -- Will to Power and Wild Talents. 

 

And of course, don't forget Guardians of Order's Silver Age Sentinels (see 'Guardians of Order Announces d20 Superhero RPG') and Green Ronin's Mutants and Masterminds (see 'Green Ronin to Publish Superhero RPG').