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Heroes of The Lance

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MSX 2 RPG 1988 1 Player 5 (0) 2

Heroes of The Lance

Inside Heroes of The Lance

Compiled by the Retro Games Online Editorial Team · Updated June 28, 2026

Advanced Dungeons & Dragons: Heroes of the Lance hit the MSX 2 in 1988, bringing a slice of the Dragonlance saga to home computers. This is an action role-playing game that adapts the first Dragonlance campaign module, Dragons of Despair, and the novel Dragons of Autumn Twilight. The MSX 2 version fits into the broader trend of D&D video games from the late 80s, offering a different visual and control experience compared to the more common console editions.

The player controls a party of signature Dragonlance heroes - Tanis, Sturm, Goldmoon, and others - as they explore dungeon environments in a side-scrolling perspective. Combat happens in real time, with each character having different attack skills and abilities. You switch between party members on the fly to handle different threats, collect items, and navigate traps. The action focuses on progressing through linear levels while managing health and resources.

Today, Heroes of the Lance on MSX 2 stands as a curio from the early days of computer D&D adaptations. The MSX 2 hardware allows for detailed sprite work and a smooth scrolling experience that still looks pleasant. For fans of the Dragonlance novels or retro D&D gaming, it offers a faithful (if rough around the edges) translation of the source material. Just don't expect deep RPG mechanics - it's more of a straightforward action game with character switching.

How to Play Heroes of The Lance Online

Getting Started

When you boot the game, you'll see a title screen and then a brief introduction. Press Start to begin. The game throws you into a dungeon with your party already assembled. You control one character at a time, using the D-Pad to move and S to attack. Swap between heroes by pressing the appropriate button (often mapped to a shoulder button or using Select to cycle). Each character has unique strengths - Sturm is tough, Tanis is balanced, Goldmoon heals - so you'll need to switch frequently to handle different enemies.

The core loop is straightforward: explore the side-scrolling levels, fight monsters, collect treasure and keys, and find the exit to the next area. When a character's health runs out, they fall but can be revived later. There are no save slots in the traditional sense, but the game uses a password system that you receive after completing sections. Write these down. If this is the Japanese version, menu text will be in Japanese, but the game is action-driven enough that navigation is still possible through trial and error.

Heroes of The Lance Keyboard Controls

Controls

Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
X: Trigger 1
S: Trigger 2
Enter: Start

Frequently Asked Questions

Can players save progress in Heroes of The Lance?

Progress is saved through a password system. After completing certain areas, the game displays a password that you can enter later to continue from that point.

Is Heroes of The Lance exclusive to MSX 2 or did it appear on other systems?

It appeared on many platforms, including the Nintendo Entertainment System, Commodore 64, Amiga, and others. The MSX 2 version shares the same core gameplay but has its own graphic and sound details.

What type of game is Heroes of The Lance?

It is an action role-playing game set in the Dragonlance world. The player controls a party of heroes in real-time side-scrolling combat, blending character management and physical action.