| Hex Heroes | |
| Developer: | Prismatic Games |
| Designer: | Mario Castañeda |
| Composer: | Grant Kirkhope |
| Platforms: | Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, Wii U |
| Genre: | Party, real-time strategy |
| Modes: | Single-player, multiplayer |
Hex Heroes is an unreleased-canceled party, real-time strategy game. Originally in development for Wii U since 2014, the console's eShop closed in March 2023.[1] The game remains unfinished, with plans to release on Microsoft Windows, macOS and Linux. It is ostensibly being developed by Prismatic Games,[2] and designed by Mario Castañeda, who previously co-created The Bridge.[3]
Up to five players, one with the Wii U GamePad and four with Wii Remotes, harvest resources, build structures, fend off enemies, and explore dangerous territories. The player using the GamePad manages resources and teammates, makes executive decisions, and surveys the land from a bird's-eye view.[4] There are different classes to choose from with each playing a different role.[5]
The game features a number of characters from various franchises. Each character serves as a swap for each in-game class but has their own unique animations and personalities.[6]
| width=150 | Character | width=200 | Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alicia[7] | Heart Forth, Alicia | ||
| Zoya | Trine | ||
| Egoraptor | Game Grumps | ||
| Danny | Game Grumps | ||
| Ross & Orph | Game Grumps | ||
| Juan | Guacamelee! | ||
| Max | Mutant Mudds | ||
| Shovel Knight | Shovel Knight | ||
| Rusty | SteamWorld Dig | ||
| Lady Faye IV | Rogue Legacy | ||
| Subject W | Paradise Lost: First Contact | ||
| Cyrus | Wizorb | ||
| The Drifter | Hyper Light Drifter | ||
| Turing | Read Only Memories | ||
| Hat Kid[8] | A Hat in Time |
The idea came out from a game jam. The developers had reached out to Nintendo through its indie self-publishing program.[9] A project was created on Kickstarter to help raise $80,000 to develop the game.[10] The developers had got in touch with Grant Kirkhope and after a couple of months brought him on board.[11] Cameo characters, which the developers wanted to include but were unable to, were Beck, Shantae, Raz, and Steve.[11]
In April 2014, the game was successfully funded, having reached $86,000, though it hadn't reached any of its stretch goals.[12]
Hex Heroes was displayed at the 2015 GX3 convention held in December, and was well-received, landing Prismatic an investor.[13] The game was displayed at the 2016 GDC Play conference held in March, and was named as an honorable mention for the Best in Play award.[14]
In January 2018, Prismatic announced via Kickstarter that Nintendo denied access to their development kit to the Switch. Nintendo closed the 3DS and Wii U eShop in March 2023.[15] The game is currently incomplete and there is no indication that it will be completed.[16] [17]
To help promote the game, the game's designer Mario Castañeda narrated an episode of Did You Know Gaming? covering the Super Nintendo Entertainment System.[18]