Heretic + Hexen revives and remasters FPS cult classics

Originally released back in 1994 and 1995, Raven Software’s Heretic and Hexen games were groundbreaking titles that helped shape generations of first-person shooters. Now, thanks to a surprise reveal at this year’s QuakeCon, id Software and Nightdive Studios have teamed up to deliver Heretic + Hexen, the definitive re-release of these classics.

With the rise of the modern-day boomer shooter genre, fuelled by games like Newblood’s Dusk and Ultrakill or even the upcoming Don’t Stop Girlypop, there’s no better time to revisit the genre’s roots with this package deal.

The updated collection includes:

• Heretic: Shadow of the Serpent Riders
• Hexen: Beyond Heretic
• Hexen: Deathkings of the Dark Citadel

The collection also debuts two brand new episodes:

• Heretic: Faith Renewed
• Hexen: Vestiges of Grandeur

This isn’t just a re-release, though, as id Software and Nightdive Studios have added a host of upgrades. These include co-op, as well as deathmatch for up to eight players locally or sixteen online with full cross-platform support. There’s a remastered Tome of Power soundtrack by Andrew Hulshult which can also be toggled off, if you prefer the original sound. An in-game mod browser will be included, with community-published mod support. A range of accessibility options have been introduced, too, as well as additional language support and more quality of life additions.

Alongside this reveal, id Software announced official support for DOOM Eternal PC community mods, as well as the DOOM: The Dark Ages update 2 going live, bringing with it heaps of free content, including the Ripatorium endless arena mode, and numerous gameplay fixes.

QuakeCon proves that classic shooters still have their bite. Heretic + Hexen is available now, on PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch, ready to conjure the magic again for both old and new FPS fans.