Unexpected Xbox Game Pass Addition Boosts Library with Two Classic Titles for August 2025
The Xbox Game Pass expands its collection with the addition of 'Heretic + Hexen,' two acclaimed titles that blend fantasy and familiar FPS gameplay.
A surprise Xbox Game Pass shadow drop has added two more games for players to enjoy, adding Heretic + Hexen to the library. Heretic + Hexen combine fantasy elements with the classic DOOM FPS formula, and these new definitive versions feature numerous enhancements and additional content for players to explore. Xbox Game Pass subscribers may want to check them out.
Heretic + Hexen Gameplay
Quakecon 2025 provided updates and revealed various new and existing games, with the Heretic + Hexen announcement being a highlight. Quakecon also showcased the launch of the Doom: The Dark Ages Update 2 and offered fantasy fans a free play event for The Elder Scrolls Online.
Heretic + Hexen Releases on Xbox Game Pass
Nightdive Studios has officially launched Heretic + Hexen on Xbox Game Pass. Originally released in 1994 and 1995, respectively, these titles resemble the original DOOM closely. Instead of typical firearms, players wield magic, staves, and melee weapons while contending with various foes, including undead enemies and monstrous creatures.
Heretic + Hexen aren’t simple ports, as they have been enhanced with new features, in-game mod support, and two additional episodes created by id Software and Nightdive Studios—Heretic: Faith Renewed and Hexen: Vestiges of Grandeur. The games support all their expansions and downloadable content (DLC), allowing for a richer gameplay experience.
Players can expect smooth performance with framerates of 60FPS at 1080p across platforms, with up to 120FPS in 4K on select systems. The new versions also introduce cross-platform deathmatch and co-op modes for up to 16 players online, or local split-screens for up to 8 players. The original soundtrack by Kevin Schilder is intact, with an option to switch to a remixed version by Andrew Hulshult. Moreover, new accessibility features and fixes for numerous bugs have been applied, along with support for twelve additional languages.
Heretic + Hexen serve as an excellent opportunity to revisit classic games that contributed to the advancement of the FPS genre during the 1990s. While Xbox Game Pass members can enjoy these titles at no extra charge, they are also available for direct purchase on the Xbox Store, PlayStation Store, and Steam for $14.99.
