Surprise Xbox Game Pass Shadow Drop Adds 2 More Games for August 2025

Unexpectedly, two more games have been stealthily added to Xbox Game Pass: “Heretic + Hexen”. These games blend fantasy with the well-loved FPS formula of “DOOM”, and the updated versions offer a wealth of new features and extra content. So, Xbox Game Pass members might want to take a look at these exciting additions.

At Quakecon 2025, updates and information on numerous new and ongoing games were shared. One such example is the announcement of Heretic + Hexen. Additionally, Quakecon 2025 marked the unveiling and distribution of Doom: The Dark Ages Update 2. Furthermore, fantasy enthusiasts were treated to a complimentary play event for The Elder Scrolls Online.

Heretic + Hexen Releases on Xbox Game Pass

Nightdive Studios has made both Heretic and Hexen, two classic games from 1994 and 1995, available on Xbox Game Pass. These titles share a resemblance with the original DOOM, but instead of guns and bombs, players wield magic, staffs, and melee weapons such as maces with shields. In these games, you’ll encounter undead, demonic cults, and enormous creatures, all while utilizing a modified version of the original DOOM engine.

These updated versions of “Heretic” and “Hexen”, referred to as “Heretic: Faith Renewed” and “Hexen: Vestiges of Grandeur”, aren’t simple remakes. They’ve been enhanced with fresh features, support for user-created mods, and even two new episodes – a collaboration between id Software and Nightdive Studios. The titles come packaged with all their original releases and DLC, such as “Heretic: Shadow of the Serpent Riders”, “Hexen: Beyond Heretic”, and “Hexen: Deathkings of the Dark Citadel”.

The games have been optimized to run at 60FPS in 1080p across all platforms, with select systems supporting up to 120FPS in 4K. The new versions also feature cross-platform multiplayer deathmatch and co-op for up to 16 players online or local split-screen modes for up to 8 players. Players can choose between the original soundtrack by Kevin Schilder or a remixed version by Andrew Hulshult. Additional features include accessibility options, bug fixes, and support for twelve extra languages.

Exploring two timeless first-person shooter (FPS) games that significantly influenced the genre in the 1990s is made possible through Heretic and Hexen. If you’re an Xbox Game Pass subscriber, you can enjoy them for free. Alternatively, they can be purchased on the Xbox Store, PlayStation Store, or Steam at a price of $14.99 for those who prefer to own the game or play it across different platforms.

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2025-08-08 03:36