When we talk about the history of first-person shooters, names like Heretic and Hexen always follow right after DOOM. In early August 2025, Bethesda, in collaboration with id Software and Nightdive Studios, released a remastered package of these classics. In this Heretic + Hexen review, we dive into everything the new edition offers.
This release is more than a simple re-sale. It’s a comprehensive bundle that includes the original games, their expansions, and new campaigns, all enhanced with modern technical improvements and accessibility features.
Story and World
Storytelling has never been the primary focus of these games, but it provided a framework that justified the chaos and nonstop combat.
Heretic places you in the role of a hero fighting the armies of the Serpent Riders across dark, fantasy-inspired realms, mixing magical weapons with classic level design.
Hexen was more ambitious in structure, allowing players to choose from three distinct classes with unique playstyles. Its levels were interconnected like sprawling labyrinths, requiring exploration and puzzle-solving.
The new edition adds two fresh expansions: Faith Renewed for Heretic and Vestiges of Grandeur for Hexen. However, despite these additions, narrative depth remains limited. The stories serve more as a backdrop for the action rather than meeting the modern standards of storytelling seen in today’s shooters. The real hook here, as always, is the gameplay.
Gameplay in Heretic + Hexen
Heretic delivers a fast-paced shooter experience close to DOOM but with a fantasy twist. Weapons remain some of the most creative in the genre: a magic wand, a bow firing flaming arrows, and even the quirky Morph Ovum that transforms enemies into chickens. These ideas still feel unique decades later.
Hexen adds more complexity. Each class drastically changes the way you play:
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The Fighter relies on brute force.
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The Cleric balances melee combat with mystical abilities.
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The Mage specializes in long-range attacks.
However, Hexen’s level design is notoriously convoluted, often overwhelming players with backtracking and overcomplicated puzzles. While the remaster introduces a better map and subtle indicators, the disorientation isn’t fully eliminated. In short, Hexen leaned more toward a Metroidvania-style experience than a straightforward shooter.
Modern Enhancements
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Vertical aiming, absent in the originals.
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Quick save/load system to reduce frustrating retries.
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Gameplay balance options, letting you toggle between classic and enhanced modes.
These refinements make the collection more approachable for today’s players while preserving its old-school soul.
Graphics and Sound
Visually, the collection makes a clear leap forward with support for ultrawide displays, 4K resolution, and up to 120 FPS. Lighting and details have been improved, while retaining the retro aesthetic. Still, newcomers unfamiliar with 90s shooters may find the visuals dated.
Music is where the package truly shines. Composer Andrew Hulshult re-orchestrated the original soundtracks, infusing them with fresh energy while maintaining their identity. Players can instantly switch between the original and remastered tracks, a respectful touch that enhances both nostalgia and choice.
Multiplayer and Community Support
The re-release also amplifies the multiplayer aspect:
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Online cross-play for up to 16 players.
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Local split-screen for up to 8 players, a rare feature in today’s games.
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Integrated mod support, with a built-in library on PC for browsing and installing fan creations.
These features transform the collection into more than a revival—it’s a platform for rebuilding the classic FPS community and reliving the 90s Team Deathmatch era.
Heretic + Hexen Review Final Verdict
The Heretic + Hexen release is more of a love letter to the past than a bold leap into the future. Veterans of the 90s will find a carefully enhanced experience that blends nostalgia with modern technical polish. It feels like rediscovering the classics, now sharpened for today’s hardware.
For newcomers, however, the games may come across as dated despite the updates. The contrast between retro design and modern expectations makes this release as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
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