When comparing Heroes Against Darkness vs Swords & Wizardry, the Slant community recommends Swords & Wizardry for most people. In the question“What are the best tabletop RPGs?” Swords & Wizardry is ranked 19th while Heroes Against Darkness is ranked 33rd.
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Focuses on simplicity
The game uses a single "d20 + modifier ≥ target" mechanic for everything. Characters can be created in less than 5 minutes. The writing is concise and clear.
Pro Deep, without being cluttered
A lot of meta-tools such as templates, etc, that make combat encounters incredibly simple to construct. Great tools for creature-building. A lot of good information on world-building. You can make any type of game efficiently, from hack-and-slash to role-playing. If you have played in a D&D campaign, this is a great choice for your first outing as a GM.
Pro Great for those looking for a classic fantasy experience
Pro Allows expanding upon it
Cons
Con Requries prior knowledge of RPGs to completely understand
Some knowledge will be required to understand the rules as there are some unexplained conventions that are presumed to be understood.