Retro shooter enthusiasts, gleefully celebrate as Heretic and Hexen are added to Game Pass unexpectedly!
In August 2025, Nightdive Studios, in collaboration with id Software, released the highly anticipated Heretic + Hexen remaster. This comprehensive update brings a host of gameplay enhancements, two new episodes, and a modern twist to these iconic fantasy first-person shooter (FPS) games.
Gameplay Enhancements
The remaster boasts significant technical improvements, including support for up to 4K resolution and 120 frames per second (FPS) on compatible hardware such as Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC. Enhanced visuals are another key feature, with texture improvements, widescreen support, and newly redrawn art for first-person weapon sprites.
Multiplayer options have been expanded, allowing for online crossplay multiplayer and co-op for up to 16 players, as well as local split-screen for up to 4 players on consoles and 8 on PC and newer consoles. The remaster also includes community-published mod support with an in-game mod browser, accessibility and quality-of-life improvements, and improved map usability.
A remixed soundtrack by Andrew Hulshult, known for his work on DOOM and Quake-related projects, adds a fresh auditory experience. Additionally, a "Vault" section offers behind-the-scenes content, including concept art and unused assets.
New Content
Two all-new episodes were developed collaboratively by id Software and Nightdive Studios: Heretic: Faith Renewed and Hexen: Vestiges of Grandier. These new episodes significantly expand the campaign, which now has a total of 117 campaign maps and 120 deathmatch maps across all episodes.
Availability and Pricing
Heretic + Hexen is available for purchase on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC via Windows and Steam. For those subscribing to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, the remaster is part of the vast library of titles available to download freely.
A special deal is happening at CDKeys, offering one month's worth of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription time for $12.04 instead of the normal retail price of $19.99.
A Modern Take on Classic Games
The remaster is considered by some players a true "re-master" version, as it not only increases resolutions and adds widescreen but also reworks assets and improves core gameplay quality. Nightdive has aimed to preserve the original creativity of these classics while modernizing the experience for both new and returning players.
In summary, the Heretic + Hexen remaster offers substantial technical improvements, richer multiplayer options, mod support, accessibility upgrades, and completely new story episodes, making it a comprehensive update to these iconic fantasy FPS games.
- The gaming world is abuzz with the release of the Heretic + Hexen remaster, a collaborative effort between Nightdive Studios and id Software.
- This comprehensive update offers gameplay enhancements, support for up to 4K resolution and 120 FPS on devices like Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, and PC.
- With multiplayer options expanded to accommodate up to 16 players for online crossplay and co-op, and local split-screen for up to 4 players on consoles and 8 on PC, the remaster caters to both solo and multiplayer gaming enthusiasts.
- Microsoft's Xbox Series X, Windows, and Steam platforms are hosting this modern take on the classic games, with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers able to download it for free.
- A special offer from CDKeys presents a one-month subscription to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate for $12.04, a significant savings from the $19.99 retail price.
- The remaster's key features include a remixed soundtrack by Andrew Hulshult, a "Vault" section filled with behind-the-scenes content, and community-published mod support.
- As Nightdive Studios has aimed to preserve the original creativity while modernizing the experience, this remaster promises to offer a blend of nostalgic entertainment and cutting-edge technology, making it an appealing addition to any PC desktop or gadget collection, and a must-have for fans of fantasy FPS games, sports-betting, and technology-driven entertainment alike.
