In this issue we look closer into heroes and heroism as a concept in video games. Are there any? To the ancient Greeks, who invented the word, a hero, or heroine, was typically a demigod or the progeny of a deity. Heroes often had suffered a personal loss or tragedy, but were able to stand up to all challenges and show courage from a position of weakness. A true hero was not perfect, according to Greek mythology. Overcoming one’s own flaws, fighting for the greater good and being ready to sacrifice oneself for the sake of others were the qualities of a hero. What is left of that ancient ideal in the heroes of today?