Superheros - Champions vs Mutants and Masterminds

I've played many superhero games in my life in the 80's. My first was the Champions game system from Hero Games. Then it led to Heroes Unlimited from Palladium, Marvel Superheroes from TSR, and DC Heroes from Mayfair.

Of these, Champions stands the test of time as it is in its 6th edition. It is still the best system to create whatever hero you want. You do have to have familiarity with the system to get the most out of it and math skills are handy. The only flaw I had in it is the sheer overabundance of choice and the time it took to make scenarios and villains for my friends to face against. If you have the patience though, it will reward you.

There has been a new system on the block these last ten years that has grown from its good beginnings to its current third edition masterpiece; Mutants and Masterminds. For me it approaches the choice in making whatever hero (and villain) you want in the Champions system without the complexity. They have also not been afraid to turf what didn't work in previous systems to make it better. They are currently celebrating their 10th anniversary with a special edition of their 3rd edition rulebook on Kickstarter. Their basic rulebook is in the $20 range. They have also picked up the DC license and have a DC version of the rulebook, hardbound, with menagerie books out already.

There are a few new superhero game systems out there that have unique rulesets. Just do a google search and see where it takes you or look in your local gamestore.