January Hall of Fame Inductee – Champions

Released in 1981 by Hero Games, Champions introduced a level of customization and player agency that was groundbreaking for its time. Created by George MacDonald and Steve Peterson, the game featured a point-based character creation system that allowed players to craft highly personalized superheroes with  precision. This innovation led to the development of the Hero System, which proved a versatile enough framework to support a variety of genres beyond superheroes.

Champions became a touchstone for the superhero RPG genre, paving the way for games like Mutants & MastermindsMarvel Heroic Roleplaying, and Silver Age Sentinels. Beyond the tabletop, its influence extended to video games and inspired countless creators to explore flexible, narrative-driven mechanics. With a focus on balance and creativity, it offered players and game masters a toolkit for telling deeply personal and action-packed superhero tales.

Over its many editions, Champions has remained a cornerstone of the superhero RPG genre, balancing intricate mechanics with a passion for narrative depth. With decades of expansions, adaptations, and accolades, it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of players and creators. Its legacy is not just in its mechanics but in the creative freedom it offers, empowering players to step into the world of superheroes and craft stories that endure.