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HeXen II

PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac • 2007

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Quick resume

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse lurk in the shadows before you. They are Death, Pestilence, Famine, and War. They are the root of all that is evil, but the least of your worries. The last of the three Serpent Riders yet lives.

Global score

79/100

Genres

Action, Role-playing (RPG), Shooter, Adventure

Pros

  • Challenging and rewarding gameplay
  • Immersive dark fantasy atmosphere
  • Multiple classes with unique playstyles
  • Complex puzzles and exploration
  • Active modding community and replayability

Cons

  • Obtuse and frustrating puzzles
  • Lack of in-game map and guidance
  • Dated graphics and controls
  • Missing official expansion on steam
  • Some bugs and glitches reported

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players choose from four distinct classes with unique weapons and abilities, and can decide how to approach combat and puzzles, including inventory and resource management, indicating high player control and freedom."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game is challenging with punishing combat, complex puzzles, and requires skillful resource management and spatial awareness, rewarding player mastery and problem solving."

  • Competition
    -3

    "While multiplayer modes exist, the emphasis in reviews is on single-player exploration and puzzle solving rather than competitive ranked play or leaderboards."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Many players report long playtimes, replayability through multiple classes, and habitual engagement with the game and its community mods."

  • Cooperation
    2

    "The game supports cooperative multiplayer, but most player experiences focus on solo play and individual puzzle solving."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players engage in inventory management, use various items creatively, and solve complex puzzles, reflecting creative problem solving rather than rote repetition."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions are balanced and cooperative in multiplayer; no evidence of dominance or power imposition over others."

  • Escapism
    4

    "The dark fantasy setting, immersive atmosphere, and challenging gameplay provide a strong escape from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of nostalgia, interest in challenging old-school games, and personal desire rather than obligation."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Players explore different classes, weapons, and puzzle solutions, experimenting with strategies and item usage."

  • Exploration
    4

    "The game features large, interconnected hub worlds with many secrets and hidden puzzles, encouraging extensive exploration."

  • Expression
    2

    "Character class choice and weapon selection allow some degree of self-expression, though customization is limited."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "The game is set in a dark fantasy world with mythical creatures, magic, and apocalyptic themes, fully embracing imaginative fiction."

  • Fellowship
    1

    "While there is a multiplayer community and mods, most player experiences emphasize solo play and individual progression."

  • Growth
    4

    "The RPG elements with leveling, skill acquisition, and puzzle solving promote learning and personal development."

  • Health
    -4

    "The game is a sedentary FPS with no physical activity elements; players often report long sessions and intense focus."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires constant attention due to challenging combat and puzzles; not suited for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -3

    "Social interactions are limited to multiplayer modes; emotional connections or close relationships are not a focus."

  • Leadership
    -3

    "Multiplayer is cooperative without emphasis on leadership roles; players generally participate equally."

  • Progression
    4

    "Players accumulate experience, level up, collect items and weapons, and unlock new abilities and areas."

  • Relaxation
    -3

    "The game is often described as punishing and frustrating, with sustained tension from difficult puzzles and combat."

  • Sensation
    3

    "The atmospheric music, dark visuals, and combat effects provide sensory stimulation and emotional engagement."

  • Status
    -4

    "The game lacks social status systems or recognition; achievements are personal and not publicly ranked."

  • Story
    3

    "The game has a narrative involving the Serpent Riders and apocalyptic themes, with lore and plot progression through puzzles and exploration."

  • Strategy
    4

    "Players must plan resource use, combat tactics, and puzzle solving strategies to progress."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Combat and boss fights provide suspense and excitement, though some frustration is reported."

  • Value
    4

    "Players find good value in the game's length, replayability, and community mods, especially at discounted prices."

  • Violence
    4

    "Combat involves melee and ranged attacks against fantasy enemies, with satisfying destruction and gore effects."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must manage health, mana, and resources carefully to survive challenging enemies and bosses."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026