Last week, the surprise release of remastered versions of Heretic and Hexen caught the attention of many, including those who may not have held these titles in high regard during their original 1990s releases. Developed by Raven Software, Heretic debuted in 1994 as a fantasy-themed counterpart to Doom. While it was an enjoyable experience, it didn’t quite capture the imagination of all players. The following year, Hexen attempted to blend RPG elements into the first-person shooter genre, but its complexity often led to frustration.
One of the standout features of Heretic was its unique weaponry, particularly the ethereal crossbow, which offered a fresh take on combat. The humor found in using magic bracers to punch gargoyles added a quirky charm. The game also allowed players to collect items for strategic use, such as deploying multiple Time Bombs of the Ancients to dispatch enemies in clever ways. However, its overall gameplay felt too similar to Doom, and its cartoonish fantasy aesthetic paled in comparison to the darker tones of Hexen.
Gameplay Enhancements and Level Design
Nightdive Studios has made subtle yet impactful gameplay adjustments in both remasters. While many of these changes may go unnoticed by those who haven’t played in over twenty-five years, they include tweaks to level design and weapon mechanics. For instance, the ethereal crossbow’s ammo capacity has been reduced, encouraging players to diversify their arsenal. Players can toggle these changes on or off, allowing for a personalized experience.
Reflecting on Heretic in 2025 reveals a newfound appreciation for its level design. The game’s environments exhibit a sophistication that surpasses even Doom 2, which was released shortly before Heretic. Levels like E1M4 ‘The Guard Tower’ and E1M5 ‘The Citadel’ showcase an architectural depth that evokes a sense of realism, creating immersive spaces that feel more like actual locations than mere game levels.
In contrast, Hexen introduced a hub-based level structure that aimed to create a sprawling adventure but often resulted in confusion. The game required players to navigate complex environments to find switches that opened new paths, which could be frustrating. Nightdive has addressed some of these issues by enhancing the in-game map, making it more user-friendly, and adding environmental cues to guide players through the labyrinthine levels.
Additionally, players can now change their character class mid-game, a feature that adds a layer of flexibility not previously available. These improvements make Hexen more accessible, transforming it from a challenging experience into one that is more enjoyable, albeit still retaining its ambitious design.
While neither title captured my heart in the ’90s, the remastered collection of Heretic and Hexen presents a compelling package. Heretic benefits significantly from its visual upgrades, while Hexen offers a nostalgic glimpse into the ambitious experimentation of the era. Nightdive’s commitment to enhancing playability while preserving the essence of these classic titles speaks to a broader trend in the gaming industry, where nostalgia meets modern gaming sensibilities.