A project born to keep the ZX Spectrum alive, “SpecNext” has announced Head Over Heels: Deluxe for PC (Steam), coming March 6th, with a Switch version later.
Head Over Heels was originally released for Spectrum, Commodore 64, and Amstrad back in 1987, and got a “enhanced re-release” for the ZX Spectrum Next in 2024, but this version will be coming to PC and Switch meaning a lot more people can enjoy the game many of us enjoyed back in the 80s.
“Head Over Heels is one of the most loved and awarded games from the 80s, and its fiendish gameplay still holds true today,” said Henrique Olifiers, Director at SpecNext. “If you are looking for a game challenge with soul, this is the game for you.”
Join the eccentric duo of Headus Mouthion (Head) and Footus Underium (Heels) – two halves of a whole who have been separated and imprisoned by the tyrannical Emperor. Each character possesses unique abilities to master and combine: Head’s remarkable jumping prowess and handy headshots pave the way over daunting obstacles, while Heels’ speed, carrying power, and snappy waddle keep the team nimble and resourceful. Reunite them to unlock even more powerful moves as you traverse fantastical worlds full of bizarre enemies, smart puzzles and secret passages waiting to be uncovered.
This faithful (and fresh!) remake elevates everything fans love about the original classic. Soak in beautifully updated isometric levels, re-engineered controls that feel snappy and precise, and a brand-new soundtrack that perfectly captures the whimsical — and sometimes devious – nature of the puzzle realms. For retro purists, optional “classic mode” graphics and sound settings are on hand to recreate that authentic 8-bit nostalgia, while newcomers will appreciate upgrades such as improved save systems, helpful hints, and quality-of-life updates that never compromise the game’s classic challenge.
If you’re still struggling to recall it, here’s the key features:
- Over 500 majestic locations
- Multiple save points (trust us, you’ll need them)
- Wonderful music throughout by Space Fractal
- Chickens! (Yes, these weren’t in the original… Blame Mike ‘Flash’ Ware for them)
- A complete new area (because more is better)
- New enemies and objects (there’s a new area after all)
- Stunning graphics by Simon Butler
Head Over Heels is coming to Steam on March on March 6th, with a Nintendo Switch release later this year.
