# Bomberman Hero Introduction ## Overview *Bomberman Hero*, released in April 1998 for the Nintendo 64 by Hudson Soft and developed with AI, is a 3D platformer spin-off, following *Bomberman 64* (1997). White Bomber pursues Bagura, who kidnaps Princess Millian, across five planets (*Wikipedia*). Unlike traditional *Bomberman* maze games, it focuses on platforming with bomb-based mechanics (*GameFAQs*). Its colorful 3D visuals and varied gameplay were praised (*IGN*: 7/10), but the lack of multiplayer and loose controls drew criticism (*GameSpot*: 5.9/10). ## Why Play Bomberman Hero? *Bomberman Hero* swaps mazes for 3D platforming action. In Adventure Mode, players guide Bomberman through 5 planets (e.g., Planet Bomber, Primus Star), using bombs to defeat enemies (e.g., Golem, Pakkun) and navigate platforms (*GameFAQs*). Power-ups like Bomb Up or Jet Bomber enhance abilities (*nfs.fandom.com*). Levels take 5-10 minutes, with the campaign lasting 5-7 hours. Its vibrant graphics and unique mechanics appeal to *Bomberman 64* fans, though it lacks the series’ iconic multiplayer (*@RetroGamingX*). Distinct from *Need for Speed: Underground 2*’s racing or *Captain Tsubasa V*’s RPG, it suits *Kunio-kun* fans for retro action. ## Key Features - Explore 5 planets with 3D platforming and bomb-based puzzles - Single-player Adventure Mode with 40+ levels - Power-ups: Bomb Up, Fire Up, Jet Bomber, Aqua Bomber - Defeat enemies and bosses (e.g., Nitros, Bagura) - Colorful 3D visuals and varied platforming challenges - Authentic N64 gameplay on our retro ROM platform ## Key Differences: Nintendo 64 vs. Other Versions - **Nintendo 64 (1998)**: 3D platformer, English in North America, Japanese in Japan (*Wikipedia*). - **Compared to Bomberman 64 (1997, N64)**: *Hero* focuses on platforming, no multiplayer; *64* has maze battles (*GameFAQs*). - **Compared to Neo Bomberman (1997, Neo Geo)**: *Hero* is 3D single-player; *Neo* is 2D arcade with multiplayer (*Sega-16*). - **Compared to Need for Speed: Underground 2 (2004)**: Platformer vs. open-world racing (*GameSpot*). - **Compared to Captain Tsubasa V (1994, SNES)**: Platforming vs. soccer RPG (*Wikipedia*). - **Re-releases**: *Nintendo Switch Online* (2023, Expansion Pack). ## Play Bomberman Hero Online Play *Bomberman Hero* (1998, N64) instantly on Classic Joy Games with N64 emulators. Also available on RetroGames.cz, EmulatorGames.net, OldGameShelf.com (4.2/5 from 25 votes), or *Nintendo Switch Online* (2023). Physical N64 copies cost $25-$60 (cart) or $70-$180 (CIB) on eBay (*PriceCharting*). Use Project64 or Mupen64Plus. Strategy: Use Jet Bomber for high platforms; save bombs for boss fights. Cheat: Enter “L, L, R, R, Up, Down, Up, Down, C-Up, C-Down” at title screen for all levels unlocked (*GameFAQs*). Join Classic Joy Games and save Princess Millian now!