Heretic plus Hexen

Heretic + Hexen is a re-release bundle of two iconic fantasy shooters that once reshaped the FPS genre. Built on the DOOM engine and originally developed by Raven Software, these classics return with modern upgrades, new episodes, and cross-platform multiplayer. Whether you remember them from the 90s or you’re stepping in for the first time, the package mixes nostalgia with smoother gameplay and fresh content. Lesson learned: always carry a spare staff.

What’s Inside the Bundle

The Heretic + Hexen collection isn’t just a repack. It comes with the original games plus expansions and two brand-new episodes. That’s a lot of dark dungeons to crawl through.

• Heretic: Shadow of the Serpent Riders – extended edition with extra episodes
• Hexen: Beyond Heretic
• Hexen: Deathkings of the Dark Citadel – 20 additional scenarios
• Two new adventures: Heretic: Faith Renewed and Hexen: Vestiges of Grandeur

That’s 117 campaign maps and 120 deathmatch maps in total. Need a challenge? You got it.

Upgrades and Enhancements

The re-release isn’t stuck in the past. Nightdive Studios and id Software added a bunch of modern touches while keeping the original vibe intact.

• 4K resolution and 120 fps with multithreaded rendering
• Cross-platform multiplayer for up to 16 players
• Local split-screen up to 8 players – couch chaos guaranteed
• Enhanced soundtrack by Andrew Hulshult
• In-game mod browser with community content
• Controller support with a slick weapon carousel
• Accessibility options: UI tweaks, text-to-speech, better contrast
• Quick save/load, widescreen, balance toggle (original or enhanced)
• Bug fixes straight from the engine level

Oh, and yes – it runs smoother than ever. No more getting stuck on those infamous doors.

Gameplay Experience

Heretic and Hexen are first-person shooters with a twist. Instead of just blasting enemies, you collect items, manage spells, and explore labyrinth-like maps. Heretic brought in vertical aiming and inventory systems long before they became standard. Hexen added character classes – Warrior, Mage, and Cleric – each with distinct playstyles.

Combat is fast, brutal, and sometimes confusing. One moment you’re frying undead with fire, the next you’re lost in a maze of teleporters. Classic design. But with the new episodes, there’s even more variety and fresh challenges.

Singleplayer, Co-op, and Multiplayer

You can dive solo into these dark fantasy worlds, but the real fun often comes with friends. The bundle supports co-op and deathmatch across platforms or on the same couch. Up to 16 players online means chaos at every corner. Want something more old-school? Split-screen for 8 players has you covered.

Similar Games

If you enjoy Heretic + Hexen, you might also like:

• Amid Evil – another retro-inspired fantasy shooter
• Project Warlock II – fast-paced with RPG elements
• Wizordum – spellcasting action in dungeon environments

Final Thoughts

Heretic + Hexen isn’t just about nostalgia. It’s about rediscovering the roots of the fantasy FPS while enjoying modern polish. Whether you’re back to face D’Sparil and Korax or just curious about the games that inspired today’s shooters, this bundle is worth the dive.
And hey – remember: secret doors aren’t always on the walls. Sometimes they’re under your feet.