Nightdive Studios is once again demonstrating why it’s become a go-to name in the remastering world. The developer has just released a surprise reissue combining two cult first-person fantasy shooters, Heretic and Hexen, packaged together for modern platforms with extra content and improvements.
What’s Included in the Heretic + Hexen Release
- The bundle gathers several original games: Heretic: Shadow of the Serpent Riders, Hexen: Beyond Heretic, and Hexen: Deathkings of the Dark Citadel, all updated for today’s hardware.
- Beyond simply repackaging, Nightdive has added two new episodes to the mix, made by the original firms behind these titles. The fresh levels are inspired by the originals, preserving their style while extending the adventure.
- Enhanced compatibility is a major plus: the release works across a wide range of platforms, with support for modern consoles, PCs, and portable devices. It also includes improved rendering, refreshed lighting, and other quality-of-life upgrades to make the experience smoother and more visually appealing.
Why This Matters
- Reviving Nostalgia, Expanding Access: Heretic and Hexen were important touchstones in the ’90s shooter scene, but many modern players either missed them or couldn’t easily run them. This bundle gives both older fans and new players a chance to see what they were about, in a way that holds up visually and functionally.
- New Episodes Give Value: Adding new content shows Nightdive isn’t just about preserving history, but also contributing something fresh. It signals respect for the source material rather than just republishing old code.
- Cross-Platform Reach: By launching on multiple systems with modern enhancements, Nightdive ensures that platform fragmentation won’t block fans. No matter their system, more players can enjoy these revived classics.
What We Know & What’s Speculated
- The developers had teased “something big” at recent gaming events, and many fans speculated that Hexen, Heretic, or other 90s FPS titles might be next in line. This release confirms at least part of that rumor mill.
- There’s also talk of more Nightdive remasters in the works, including reissues of other vintage shooters and possibly entirely new remakes built using modern engines. Fans are particularly interested to see what titles might follow Heretic + Hexen.
Final Thoughts
Nightdive Studios’ herculean commitment to restoring and enhancing classic games gives the retro gaming community something to celebrate. With Heretic + Hexen, they don’t just deliver a nostalgia trip; they deliver content that feels purposeful and polished. It’s a reminder that with the right care, old games can find new life and relevance without losing what made them special.
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