Limited Run Gams is on a bit of a roll this week. After announcing MARVEL MaXimum Collection, a compendium featuring six fan-favorite retro Marvel classics, the publisher has now also confirmed the release date for He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: Dragon Pearl of Destruction.
Announced last August at Gamescom, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: Dragon Pearl of Destruction is a retro-inspired 2D brawler based on the classic ’80s cartoon. Players control He-Man, Teela, and other iconic heroes as they fight Skeletor and Evil-Lyn across 12 levels in a quest to save Eternia. Players can utilize character-specific moves, abilities, and power-ups to stop Skeletor’s ancient ritual threatening Eternia. Battle Cat, He-Man’s loyal companion, also joins the fight as a playable ally.
Designed as a tribute to the franchise’s classic cartoons and characters, developer Bitmap Bureau (Terminator 2D: NO FATE and Final Vendetta) aims to recreate the nostalgic fantasy adventure of the original He-Man and the Masters of the Universe. Crafted by longtime fans of the property, the game features detailed pixel-art animation and authentic ’80s-inspired visuals that channel the spirit of classic arcade and console titles, while delivering a retro-styled experience designed to resonate with Masters of the Universe enthusiasts.
And for those old enough to remember couch co-op or playing through sidescrollers with a buddy at the arcade, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: Dragon Pearl of Destruction will support two-player local co-op.
WIth a new trailer released this week, LImited Run Games has confirmed that He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: Dragon Pearl of Destruction will launch digitally on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC on April 28th.
“Dragon Pearl of Destruction is one of the exciting ways we’re bringing Mattel’s brands to life through digital games,” said Erika Winterholler, Head of Business Development, Digital Games at Mattel back in August. “It’s a love letter to those who grew up with He-Man, combining nostalgic visuals with fast-paced, modern gameplay. Our goal is to honor the franchise’s legacy while introducing it to a new generation of players. The team at Limited Run Games shares that passion, and we hope the game connects with both lifelong fans and newcomers alike.”
“Dragon Pearl of Destruction is the Masters of the Universe arcade game I yearned for as a child,” added Josh Fairhurst, CEO and Executive Producer at Limited Run Games. “I am excited and honored to be playing a small part in making it a reality.”
It should be noted that He-Man and the Masters of the Universe: Dragon Pearl of Destruction is a completely standalone project, separate from the upcoming Masters of the Universe live-action film that hits theaters this year.