At QuakeCon 2025, id Software and Nightdive Studios surprised retro FPS fans with the release of updated versions of Heretic and Hexen. A new video on the noclip_2 YouTube channel features id Software’s Michael “sponge” Rubits discussing why Heretic and Hexen were chosen for modern updates, what changes were made for the re-releases, and what could be next for the series.
A brief history
Released in 1994 and 1995 respectively, Heretic and Hexen were developed by Raven Software and published by id Software.
Heretic was often described as “medieval Doom”, swapping firearms for magical weapons and adding an inventory system.
Hexen pushed the concept further, introducing character classes and a distinctive level structure built around interconnected hub areas — central maps linked to multiple side maps, allowing players to backtrack and unlock new areas as they progressed. This non-linear design was ambitious at the time, though it could also feel confusing compared to Doom’s straightforward level progression.
Why now
According to sponge, choosing Heretic and Hexen was a natural step:
Both run on the Doom engine, which the team had already modernized for the Doom and Doom II re-releases.
Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision resolved long-standing rights issues for the series.
Existing Steam versions were basic DOSBox wrappers, whereas the new releases are full modern ports with wide platform support, including Game Pass and consoles.
Gameplay updates
sponge said the goal was to make the games feel as players remember them, without fundamentally changing their identity. Key adjustments include:
Heretic: integrated balance tweaks from the fan-made Wayfarer mod by Not Jabba, reducing enemy health sponges and making combat more skill-driven.
Hexen: reworked the cleric class with a shield and a parry mechanic, allowing players to deflect attacks, briefly stun enemies, and deliver powerful counterstrikes. sponge noted that good melee combat is rare in first-person games, especially on the Doom engine.
General improvements: high-resolution support, performance optimizations, subtle level readability adjustments and ideas drawn from decades of community modding.
What’s in the package
The release includes more than just the original games:
Heretic
Hexen
Hexen: Death Kings of the Dark Citadel expansion
A new Heretic episode — Faith Renewed
A new Hexen episode — Vestiges of Grandeur
sponge recommends starting with the new episodes, which are designed to teach players the quirks of the original gameplay more gently.
