Tag: Nightdive Studios

  • Nightdive and iD Software Release 90s Classics Heretic and Hexen Remaster Bundle

    Nightdive and iD Software Release 90s Classics Heretic and Hexen Remaster Bundle

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Details: Nightdive Studios and id Software launched remastered versions of Heretic and Hexen, available for $14.99 on multiple platforms, including Game Pass for Xbox and PC.

    2. Enhanced Graphics and Features: The remaster supports up to 4K 120 FPS, improved textures, a remixed soundtrack, local split-screen co-op, and online cross-platform multiplayer.

    3. New Content: The bundle includes two new episodes: Heretic: Faith Renewed and Hexen: Vestiges of Grandeur, co-developed by Nightdive and id Software.

    4. Gameplay Improvements: The remaster focuses on enhancing gameplay for Hexen while adding new textures and resources for community content creation in Heretic.

    5. Nightdive’s Experience: Nightdive Studios is recognized for restoring classic games, with a history of successful remasters like System Shock 2 and Turok.

    Nightdive Studios and id Software have just launched remastered versions of their classic first-person shooter games, Heretic and Hexen, which are now packaged together as Heretic + Hexen. This bundle is available on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, for a price of $14.99. It also comes with two brand new episodes.

    Announcement at QuakeCon

    The unveiling of Heretic + Hexen took place during the live stream at QuakeCon on August 7, 2025. Marty Stratton and Hugo Martin from id Software made the announcement. Additionally, the game is accessible for Game Pass subscribers on Xbox and PC.

    Enhanced Features

    The remastered version of Heretic + Hexen boasts support for up to 4K 120 FPS on compatible hardware, improved textures, and a remixed soundtrack by Andrew Hulshult, who is also known for his work on Doom Eternal: The Ancient Gods. Players can enjoy local split-screen co-op and deathmatch options for 4 to 8 players, depending on the platform, as well as online cross-platform multiplayer for up to 16 players. The remaster also includes mod support, allowing community members to create new content with in-game tools.

    New Original Episodes

    A notable addition to this remaster is the inclusion of two new episodes: Heretic: Faith Renewed and Hexen: Vestiges of Grandeur, which were co-developed by Nightdive and id Software. In a blog post on Xbox Wire, Matthew Tropiano from Nightdive Studios explained, “For me, much of what remastering is about is the question of striking the right balance between what to change and what to preserve. For Heretic + Hexen, we added a lot of new textures and graphics to Heretic that help flesh out its locales, while also giving the community more resources to work with when creating new content. For Hexen, most of the changes focus on gameplay improvements.”

    Nightdive’s Legacy

    Nightdive is well-known for its efforts in enhancing and restoring classic games, such as The Thing: Remastered, Killing Time: Resurrected, SiN Gold, System Shock 2, and Turok.

    Heretic was originally launched in 1994, followed by its sequel Hexen in 1995. These titles, set in a unique sci-fi gothic world with medieval weapons and magic, were created using a modified version of the Doom engine.

    Heretic was groundbreaking for its time, bringing in features like inventory management and vertical aiming. Hexen built on this foundation, introducing hub-based levels and character classes that offered various playstyles, including mage, fighter, and cleric.

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  • Doom-Engine Classics Remastered in 4K/120fps Now on Steam

    Doom-Engine Classics Remastered in 4K/120fps Now on Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Remastered Collection: Heretic + Hexen is a remastered bundle of two classic fantasy shooters, now available on multiple platforms including Steam, PlayStation, and Xbox.

    2. Gameplay Innovations: Heretic introduced vertical aiming and inventory systems in 1994, while Hexen expanded on this with class-based characters and hub-style levels in 1995.

    3. Enhanced Features: The remaster includes improved visuals (4K, 120 fps), updated textures, a modern soundtrack, accessibility options, and both online and local multiplayer modes for up to 16 players.

    4. All-in-One Content: The collection features all original Heretic episodes, Hexen’s base game, the Deathkings of the Dark Citadel expansion, and two new campaigns, totaling 117 maps.

    5. Positive Reception: Although still early in reviews, the game has received a “Very Positive” rating on Steam, highlighting its appeal to both fans and newcomers.

    During QuakeCon 2025, id Software and Nightdive Studios delighted fans by unveiling Heretic + Hexen, a completely remastered collection of two beloved fantasy shooters. The game is now accessible on platforms like Steam, GOG, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and Game Pass.

    A Look Back at the Classics

    These titles date back to the mid-1990s; Heretic first came out in 1994 and introduced vertical aiming, inventory systems, and darker fantasy themes using the Doom engine. This was followed by Hexen in 1995, which featured class-based characters and hub-style levels, broadening the gameplay experience.

    New Features and Enhancements

    This remastered bundle not only keeps the original’s charm but also enhances it in various ways. It boasts improved visuals (4K, 120 fps), updated textures, modern accessibility options, a refreshed soundtrack by Andrew Hulshult (who also contributed to the Doom Eternal soundtrack), controller compatibility, quick-save features, a balance toggle, mod browser, and the “Raven Vault” featuring art assets. Both online and local multiplayer modes for up to 16 players are included as well.

    All-in-One Package

    The collection brings together all classic content into one package, incorporating both Heretic episodes and Hexen’s base game along with Deathkings of the Dark Citadel. It also includes two brand-new campaigns: Heretic: Faith Renewed and Hexen: Vestiges of Grandeur, raising the total number of maps to 117.

    Although reviews for this game are still limited, Heretic + Hexen has received a “Very Positive” rating on Steam so far (with over 200 reviews). The enduring appeal of these types of games and their engaged modding community suggest that this remaster could serve as both a tribute and a gateway for new experiences. It’s available for $14.99. The game’s trailer is quite impressive, and you can find it linked below. You can view the Steam store page for the game here.

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    Doom-Engine Classics Remastered in 4K/120fps Now on SteamDoom-Engine Classics Remastered in 4K/120fps Now on Steam

     

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  • System Shock 2 Remaster PC Release; Console Version Delayed

    System Shock 2 Remaster PC Release; Console Version Delayed

    Key Takeaways

    1. System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster is currently only available for PC, with console releases delayed to early July due to certification issues.
    2. The delay was announced shortly before the original release date of June 26, as Nightdive Studios encountered last-minute problems.
    3. PC and Mac players can access the game on various platforms, including Steam, GOG, and Epic Games Store, with a 10% discount promotion.
    4. The remaster features significant upgrades, including 4K graphics, support for 144fps, ultra-widescreen options, and complete mod support for PC gamers.
    5. Console versions will also include high refresh rates and other enhancements, with Nightdive working to fix issues quickly and announce a new release date soon.

    Nightdive Studios has just launched the System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster for PC, but gamers on consoles will need to be patient a bit longer. The remaster was initially set to come out on June 26 for all platforms, but it’s currently available only on PC, with versions for PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch pushed back to early July.

    Delay Reasoning

    The delay, which was revealed just days before the release date, is due to some last-minute problems found during the certification process on certain consoles. The studio shared this information in a statement on Bluesky, saying, “We have encountered issues that have prevented us from launching System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster on consoles… on June 26 as originally intended.” Nightdive added, “We’re currently working to address these issues as quickly as possible… with the console release now targeting the first two weeks of July.”

    Current Availability

    Even with the console postponement, PC and Mac players can now play the game on Steam, GOG, Epic Games Store, and Humble, just like it was initially announced. There’s also a 10% discount available as part of a current promotion. This is a significant achievement for the project, which was first introduced back in 2019 and got a new name for the game’s 25th anniversary.

    Features for Players

    PC gamers can experience the game with top-notch upgrades, such as 4K graphics, support for 144fps, ultra-widescreen options, and complete mod support. The console versions are also planned to include high refresh rates (up to 120fps on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S), adjustable field of view, and post-processing effects, promising a smooth gameplay experience once they are released.

    While the delay might disappoint some console players, Nightdive has assured fans that the wait won’t be too long. The studio is “working quickly” to fix the outstanding issues and promises to announce a solid release date for PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch soon.

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    System Shock 2 Remaster PC Release; Console Version Delayed

     

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  • System Shock 2 Remake Possible, Hints Nightdive Studios

    System Shock 2 Remake Possible, Hints Nightdive Studios

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nightdive Studios is planning to release a remaster of System Shock 2 on June 26, with potential for a complete remake in the future.
    2. The future of System Shock 3 is uncertain, with complications surrounding its development and ownership since Tencent took over in 2020.
    3. Nightdive holds rights to the first two System Shock titles but not to System Shock 3, impacting their control over the franchise’s future.
    4. Nightdive aims to expand the System Shock franchise with possible remakes, new content, and cross-media projects like a live-action series.
    5. The upcoming remaster of System Shock 2 will feature improved visuals, updated cooperative gameplay, and various quality-of-life enhancements, available on multiple platforms.

    Right after revealing a June release for the highly anticipated remaster of System Shock 2, Nightdive Studios is now discussing what lies ahead for this cherished franchise.

    Future Possibilities

    The developer has given a careful update about the future of the System Shock series, hinting that a complete remake of System Shock 2 might be feasible while recognizing the uncertain situation surrounding System Shock 3. In a recent talk with VGC, Larry Kuperman, Nightdive’s business development director, responded to fans’ curiosity about a System Shock 2 remake following the upcoming release of System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster, set for June 26. When questioned about the choice to go for a remaster instead of a full remake, Kuperman playfully remarked, “Are you somehow under the impression that because we do a remaster that we won’t be able to do a remake in the future?” He further added, “That might be something that I can either confirm or deny. But there’s going to be content coming out.”

    System Shock 3’s Uncertainty

    On the other hand, the future of System Shock 3 is still in the dark. The sequel, which was initially licensed to Otherside Entertainment, was taken over by Tencent in 2020, but no updates have surfaced since then. Kuperman acknowledged that the matter is “very complicated” and may take “potentially within a year” to sort out – or even longer. While Nightdive holds the rights to the first two titles, it does not have direct control over System Shock 3.

    What’s Next for Nightdive

    Even with the ambiguity, Kuperman mentioned Nightdive’s ambitions for the franchise within its scope, including possible remakes, new content, and cross-media projects such as the previously announced live-action System Shock series.

    For the moment, fans can anticipate the System Shock 2 remaster, which boasts improved visuals, updated cooperative gameplay, and various quality-of-life enhancements. This remaster will be available on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC this June.

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  • Classic Immersive Sim Returns This June – Don’t Miss It!

    Classic Immersive Sim Returns This June – Don’t Miss It!

    Key Takeaways

    1. System Shock 2: Enhanced Edition will be released on June 26, 2025, by Nightdive Studios.
    2. The remaster features improvements like better graphics, gamepad support, and resolutions up to 4K.
    3. System Shock 2 is a significant title in the immersive sim genre, influencing games like BioShock and Dishonored.
    4. Nightdive chose a remaster over a remake to support the existing modding community and enhance future developments.
    5. The game will be available on multiple platforms, including Steam, GOG, PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.

    Six years after it was first announced as System Shock 2: Enhanced Edition, the 25th Anniversary Remaster of System Shock 2 finally has a release date. Nightdive Studios has confirmed the game for June this year, and it’s coming to Steam, GOG, Humble Store, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and the Nintendo Switch.

    A Legacy of Immersive Sims

    Developed by Looking Glass Studios, System Shock 2 is part of their famous lineup of immersive simulation games that include titles like Thief and Ultima Underworld. Nightdive Studios, which concentrates on making classic games playable on new systems, is taking care of the remaster.

    They previously gave the original System Shock an “enhanced” version in 2015, and this new remaster also features many improvements for quality of life, better graphics, gamepad support, high refresh rates, and resolutions up to 4K. Additionally, the team worked on the remake of the original System Shock, which was released in 2023.

    An Influential Classic

    The original game, which came out in 1999, is still regarded as one of the greatest examples in the immersive sim genre. Its open-ended levels and dynamic enemies encouraged players to experiment freely. It has significantly influenced many modern classics like BioShock, Dishonored, and Prey.

    Regarding why they opted for a remaster instead of a remake like the first game, Nightdive explained to Xbox Wire that they aimed to support community projects and mods created for the game, allowing them to have enhanced features for future developments.

    Supporting the Modding Community

    “We recognize that a modding community has formed around this game that would gain from the addition of advanced features,” states Nightdive’s Alex Lima. “While a remake would be cool, it wouldn’t positively impact the modding community like this remaster will.”

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  • The Thing Remastered Leak: December Release Date Revealed

    The Thing Remastered Leak: December Release Date Revealed

    Nightdive Studios is gearing up to release a remastered version of the well-loved game The Thing (2002), and a leaked release date has surfaced from Xbox Wire. Their announcement titled "Next Week on Xbox: New Games for December 2 to 6" confirms that The Thing Remastered is slated for release on December 5, 2024. This new version is a direct sequel to the 1982 cult favorite film "The Thing," and it brings along some thrilling updates for fans.

    Gameplay Overview

    The narrative centers around Captain Blake and a U.S. special forces team as they delve into the strange events at Outpost 31. This game is a third-person shooter that keeps many beloved features typical of horror survival games. Players will need to solve various puzzles, collaborate with teammates, and make difficult choices while navigating the perilous Antarctic terrain and dodging alien shapeshifters.

    Enhanced Features

    The Thing Remastered promises enhanced graphics and textures, further enriching the immersive environment that the original game was praised for. A notable addition is the brand-new trust and fear system, designed to make interactions with NPCs feel more genuine and to heighten overall tension. Fans are eager to see if the remake addresses some of the original’s flaws. Many players observed that the level design in the original could become repetitive and that certain gameplay mechanics felt rough around the edges. Fortunately, Nightdive Studios is dedicated to resolving these problems and aims to deliver an exhilarating yet chilling horror experience next week.

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