Head Over Heels Deluxe: Iconic Isometric Platformer Set for 2025 Launch on Nintendo Switch and PC

Head Over Heels Deluxe: Iconic Isometric Platformer Set for 2025 Launch on Nintendo Switch and PC The retro gaming community is in for a treat as Head Over Heels Deluxe, the enhanced version of the 1987 classic isometric platformer, readies for release.

Publisher SpecNext, renowned for its work on the Spectrum Next hardware, has partnered with developers RustyPixels and Ogre Games to bring this beloved title to both PC and Nintendo Switch platforms in 2025.

Steam users can look forward to a March 6, 2025 release date, while Nintendo Switch owners can expect the game to arrive on the eShop later in the year. Originally crafted by programmer Jon Ritman and artist Bernie Drummond and published by Ocean Software, Head Over Heels made its debut on home computers such as the ZX Spectrum and Commodore 64.

The game quickly rose to prominence for its intricate puzzle platforming and innovative dual-character controls, following on the heels of the team’s earlier isometric work in the Batman video game adaptation.

Influenced by Ultimate Play The Game’s Knight Lore, Head Over Heels stood apart for its creative mechanics and memorable characters. SpecNext's new iteration—titled Head Over Heels Deluxe—builds on a legacy that already includes a 2003 remake by Retrospec and a 2019 release on Switch and Steam.

This Deluxe edition promises to "faithfully and freshly" remake the classic, offering a comprehensive pixel art visual overhaul that seeks to honor the original aesthetic.

The development team has also introduced a dynamic new soundtrack by Space Fractal and overhauled the control scheme for improved responsiveness, addressing long-standing requests from the community. As outlined in the official Steam listing, Head Over Heels Deluxe boasts more than 500 locations to explore, a robust save system, three difficulty levels, selectable play speeds, and a suite of new enemies and objects—including a brand-new world.

Players will find both classic and updated modes available, enabling purists to tailor the graphics and sound for a true 8-bit experience, while welcoming new players with finely tuned accessibility options.

Notably, the game's visual assets have been revitalized by veteran artist Simon Butler, lending a new level of detail to the iconic isometric world. Additional features include an array of whimsical additions, such as chickens—courtesy of game designer Mike ‘Flash’ Ware—demonstrating the team's commitment to honoring the original while embracing fresh ideas.

The developers emphasize that the controls have been "re-engineered for snappy and precise movement," ensuring the gameplay remains challenging yet fair across all platforms. Fans eager to revisit or discover Head Over Heels can wishlist the game on Steam now, and anticipate the Nintendo Switch launch on the eShop later in 2025.

With its blend of nostalgia and modern enhancements, Head Over Heels Deluxe looks set to capture both long-time enthusiasts and a new generation of platforming fans.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Steam PC Switch soundtrack platformer Head Over Heels Deluxe SpecNext RustyPixels Ogre Games Space Fractal Simon Butler Head Over Heels