For fans of dark fantasy, demonic hordes, and a healthy dose of fast-paced, retro-inspired shooter action, the Heretic and Hexen series remain beloved classics. Released in the mid-90s, these games took the Doom engine and infused it with magic, medieval weaponry, and a unique sense of atmosphere. If you've exhausted their offerings or are simply looking for that same thrilling experience in 2025, you're in luck. Several modern and classic titles capture the spirit of these iconic first-person shooters. Let's dive into the top 5 best games that scratch that Heretic and Hexen itch.
1. Amid Evil
Often cited as the spiritual successor to Heretic and Hexen, Amid Evil is a modern masterpiece that perfectly captures the essence of its inspirations. Developed by Evil Work and published by New Blood Interactive, this game throws you into the role of a powerful sorcerer battling through a surreal, dark fantasy world. Expect a diverse arsenal of magical weaponry, challenging enemy encounters, and intricately designed levels that reward exploration. Its retro aesthetic is polished to a high sheen, offering a familiar yet fresh experience that's hard to put down. The combat is fluid, the spells are impactful, and the overall presentation is a loving homage to the genre's golden age.
2. Dusk
While Dusk leans more heavily into the influence of Doom and Quake, its gritty, industrial-meets-supernatural aesthetic and relentless pacing share a significant amount of DNA with Heretic and Hexen. This indie darling from David Szymanski provides a visceral and chaotic combat experience. You'll face off against cultists, monstrosities, and an array of otherworldly horrors across distinct episodes, each with its own thematic flavor. The movement is fast, the weapons are satisfyingly brutal, and the level design often features clever secrets and challenging combat arenas. If you enjoy the high-octane shooting and dark, mysterious environments of Heretic and Hexen, Dusk is an absolute must-play.
DUSK Steam (PC) - Steam CD Key - Europe is available in our store
3. Strife: Quest for the Sigil
Strife, another title that emerged from the Doom engine era, offers a unique blend of RPG elements and first-person shooting that sets it apart. While it might not be as overtly magical as Heretic or Hexen, its dark, medieval-inspired world, engaging narrative, and varied combat scenarios provide a similar sense of adventure. Players take on the role of The Other, a mysterious figure who becomes embroiled in a conflict between a corrupt church and a band of rebels. The inclusion of non-linear progression, character interaction, and distinct factions adds a layer of depth not typically found in the genre. Strife delivers a compelling experience for those who appreciate the lore and world-building often present in the Heretic and Hexen games.
4. Unholy - Ultimate Edition
Unholy, especially its Ultimate Edition, presents a truly nightmarish vision of a fantasy world consumed by darkness. This game draws heavily on gothic horror and dark fantasy, offering a more atmospheric and unsettling experience than its inspirations, but with a similar core gameplay loop. You'll wield arcane powers and brutal weapons against a horde of grotesque creatures in visually striking environments. The game emphasizes spellcasting and strategic combat, requiring players to adapt their approach to different enemy types. For those who relished the darker, more oppressive aspects of Heretic and Hexen, Unholy offers a compelling and challenging journey.
Unholy Steam (PC) - Steam CD Key - Global is available in our store
5. Ion Fury
Built on a modernized version of the Build engine (the same engine that powered Duke Nukem 3D, but sharing a similar lineage with the Doom engine), Ion Fury channels the spirit of classic shooters with a modern twist. While its setting is more cyberpunk-infused, the core gameplay—fast-paced shooting, intricate level design, and a focus on visceral combat—echoes the beloved gameplay of Heretic and Hexen. The game features an impressive arsenal of unique weapons and challenging enemy encounters. Its commitment to retro-style gameplay, complete with secrets and power-ups, makes it a fantastic choice for anyone seeking that old-school FPS thrill with a contemporary polish.
Conclusion
The legacy of Heretic and Hexen continues to inspire developers, and in 2025, players have more excellent options than ever to recapture that magic. Whether you crave the pure spell-slinging action of Amid Evil, the relentless pace of Dusk, the RPG-infused adventure of Strife, the dark fantasy horror of Unholy, or the retro-modern blast of Ion Fury, these titles offer a fantastic journey back to what made those classic games so special. Dive in and experience the thrill of dark fantasy shooters all over again!
