This is a visual reference for HeroQuest 2021 Edition using the Talisman: The Magical Quest Game – 5th Edition 2024 by Avalon Hill. Talisman is a classic board game from the 1980’s that has seen a ton of editions and expansions. Many players own various editions and may not want to plonk down the MSRP of $50 USD.
One of the nice things is that Avalon Hill is very consistent with the quality of their miniatures. It can be hard to shell out that amount of cash for only the 12 miniatures in the basic box. The fourth edition of the game had 18.
Because I prefer the female elf miniature from the 2021 edition of HeroQuest, I have chosen it as the scale reference miniature for all images in this article. All 12 Miniatures are shown here. A link to a downloadable PDF for the visual reference is provided at the end of this article.
I have always had to wonder about the use of capes on assassin miniatures. Sure, they are cloaks, and the term cloak and dagger hints at their use, but for someone wanting to remain innocuous, this seems a little flamboyant. While it is very dynamic in appearance, the long hair and a cloak are easy to catch on things while trying to escape. Perhaps it could be used as a performer in a sideshow or circus act.
A nice solid and simple sculpt that could be used for multiple caster types or as a villager NPC.
This is a gender swap from the previous four editions and has a more dynamic pose.
Other versions of this character in the older editions leave a lot to be desired. This one looks like he means business and is not as cartoonish as the third edition or as hunched over and constipated as the fourth edition.
I love the details on the book and the robes. He doesn’t need to be only a wizard; he could also pass for most caster classes.
As with most rogue miniatures, this could easily pass as a ranger or even as a courier.
The details on this miniature make it an easy jump to “undead elf ghoul”, assuming ghouls are undead in your games.
Another gender swap. I like the dynamic pose; she really looks like she means business.
With all the skulls on this lady, she could be a warlock, a necromancer, a demonologist, or a nethermancer.
Typical proselytizing priest. A static, stoic statue of a sculpt.
This is another of the less inspiring sculpts. I would have preferred a more Eastern-style monk. It seems to me like a missed opportunity to add some more variation to the game.
Not your typical Dungeons and Dragons troll, or even the slim trolls of World of Warcraft. This fellow is beefy and required two photos.
I am happy with the miniatures in this box. These did not have odd warps and bends. They are packed snugly in a plastic tray that has enough give to allow for the release of the miniatures without bending them.
I have posted a PDF file of these reference images for download.
– Dru
Dru's Den of Ill Repute 