Retro fans can finally celebrate as Raven Software's beloved fantasy first-person shooters, Heretic and Hexen, have been expertly revived with a stunning remaster. This exciting update is brought to you by the retro gaming specialists at Nightdive Studios, and is available on multiple platforms including Xbox, PlayStation, Switch, and PC. Originally released in the mid-90s, these games have left an indelible mark on the gaming community, and their remastered versions are sure to attract both seasoned players and newcomers alike.
For those unfamiliar with these iconic titles, Heretic first hit the shelves in 1994, followed by its sequel, Hexen: Beyond Heretic, just a year later. Developed by Raven Software, which is now widely recognized for its contributions to the Call of Duty franchise, both games utilized a modified version of the Doom Engine. While they shared similarities with id Software's groundbreaking shooter, they distinguished themselves by introducing a captivating medieval fantasy setting that featured not only beefy guns and demonic hordes but also swords, spell-casting, and a variety of character classes.
Thanks to Nightdive Studios, both Heretic and Hexen have received a modern makeover, ensuring they are compatible with today’s gaming hardware. Announced just before this year’s QuakeCon, the remaster package, titled Heretic + Hexen, offers a wealth of content for a reasonable price. It includes Heretic: Shadow of the Serpent Riders—which combines the original game and its expansion—along with Hexen: Beyond Heretic and the Deathkings of the Dark Citadel expansion.
In addition to the classic content, players will also enjoy two brand-new episodes: Heretic: Faith Renewed and Hexen: Vestiges of Grandeur. This remaster aims to breathe new life into these cherished games, making them accessible to a modern audience.
For fans of multiplayer gaming, there are numerous options available. Players can engage in local split-screen multiplayer for up to four participants across all platforms, which expands to eight on Xbox Series X/S and PC. Additionally, the remaster features cross-platform online support for both co-op and deathmatch modes, accommodating up to 16 players in the latter. Community mod support is another exciting addition, allowing players to further enhance their gameplay experience.
Music enthusiasts will appreciate the option to switch between the original midi/FM soundtracks and a newly composed version by Andrew Hulshult. Furthermore, the remaster includes enhanced accessibility features and a vault filled with behind-the-scenes development materials, offering a comprehensive look into the games’ creation.
In terms of performance, the Nintendo Switch version supports up to 720p at 60fps in handheld mode and 1080p at 60fps when docked. Unfortunately, it does not currently support the native Switch 2. On the other hand, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One players can expect 1080p at 60fps, with enhanced graphics for PS4 Pro and Xbox One X pushing the resolution up to native 4K at 60fps. The PS5 and Xbox Series X/S versions boast stunning native 4K at 120fps, providing an exceptional visual experience for gamers. Of course, the performance on PC will vary based on individual hardware capabilities.
The remastering of Heretic and Hexen marks an exciting chapter for fans of retro gaming. With a blend of nostalgia and modern enhancements, Nightdive Studios has succeeded in reviving these classics for a new generation. Whether you are revisiting these iconic titles or experiencing them for the first time, the Heretic + Hexen bundle promises hours of immersive gameplay in a richly crafted fantasy world.
