A lesser-known piece of Nintendo history is making a comeback as Sunsoft officially announces a modern remake of its 1994 Super Nintendo title Hashire Hebereke. The updated version, titled Hashire Hebereke: EX, is set to launch on September 3 as a console exclusive for the Nintendo Switch, while also releasing on PC.
Published by Gravity Games Arise, the remake marks the return of a niche racing game that many Western players never experienced. Originally released only in Japan, the game remained largely inaccessible outside its home market, making this upcoming version the first widely available iteration for global audiences.
A Forgotten SNES Game Gets a Second Life
The original Hashire Hebereke was the fifth entry in the Hebereke series, a quirky franchise known for its colorful characters and unconventional gameplay. Despite its unique charm, the title never achieved widespread recognition, partly due to its limited release and language barrier.
For Western audiences, the game was practically invisible. Importing it required both effort and knowledge of Japanese, making it inaccessible to most players at the time. As a result, even long-time Nintendo fans may be unfamiliar with its existence.
The remake aims to change that by introducing the game to a new generation while modernizing its presentation. Although detailed gameplay updates have not yet been fully revealed, the project is being described as a “modern remake,” suggesting improvements beyond a simple visual upgrade.
What to Expect From Hashire Hebereke: EX
At its core, Hashire Hebereke is a racing game that blends chaotic mechanics with lighthearted design. Players choose from a roster of eccentric characters and compete across obstacle-filled tracks packed with items and hazards.
According to the official description provided by Sunsoft,
“Players can choose from a cast of quirky and adorable characters to race through item-filled, obstacle-packed courses.”
This emphasis on personality and unpredictability sets it apart from more traditional racing titles.
The remake is also expected to expand its multiplayer capabilities. Local multiplayer will support up to four players, while online modes will allow up to eight participants, bringing the game in line with modern expectations. These additions could significantly enhance its appeal, especially for players looking for social or competitive experiences.
A Global Release With Expanded Language Support
One of the most significant changes in the remake is its accessibility. Unlike the original release, which was limited to Japanese, Hashire Hebereke: EX will include multiple language options. Confirmed languages include English, French, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Korean, and Chinese, alongside Japanese.
This expansion ensures that the game can reach a much wider audience, addressing one of the biggest barriers that prevented the original from gaining international recognition. It also reflects a broader trend in the industry, where previously region-locked titles are being reintroduced to global markets.
Nintendo Switch Exclusivity and Future Compatibility
The remake will launch as a Nintendo Switch console exclusive, reinforcing Nintendo’s continued focus on unique and nostalgic experiences. While it will also be available on PC, it will not release on competing consoles, at least for now.
There has been no announcement regarding a version for the anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. However, the game is expected to be playable on the next-generation system through backward compatibility, ensuring that it remains accessible as Nintendo transitions to new hardware.
