Hexen: Deathkings of the Dark Citadel
IGDB
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About Hexen: Deathkings of the Dark Citadel
Hexen: Deathkings of the Dark Citadel is a 1996 shooter-RPG expansion developed by Raven Software and published by id Software. Set in the same dark fantasy world as the original Hexen, it adds 20 new single-player levels and expands multiplayer options. The game lets players join up to eight others on LAN for deathmatch battles. It’s divided into three new hubs, each with distinct areas to explore. Released for DOS, Windows, and Mac, it leans into third-person combat, class-based progression, and weapon variety. The expansion feels like a natural extension of the base game, focusing on fast-paced action and hub-style level design.
Gameplay
You control a malleable warrior who can switch between three classes, melee, ranged, and magic, each with unique abilities. The expansion’s levels are built around open hubs filled with enemies, loot, and side quests. Combat is twitch-focused: you duck, sidestep, and spam spells or guns to clear rooms. The map system is minimal, so backtracking and exploration are key. Multiplayer is frantic, with deathmatch modes emphasizing quick reflexes. Controls are straightforward, keyboard and mouse for aiming, but movement can feel clunky by modern standards. The game rewards aggression, but its dated AI and repetitive enemy types can dull later sessions.
What Players Think
Community reception is mixed. The IGDB score of 70.2 from 12 ratings suggests modest praise, with fans praising the multiplayer innovation and hub design. Average playtime is around 8 hours, though completionists spend 15-20. Review snippets highlight the “eight-player LAN chaos” and “solid level variety,” while critics note “repetitive combat” and “aging visuals.” Over 60% of players finish the single-player campaign, but only 15% reach all three hubs fully. Enthusiasts on forums often compare it to the base Hexen, calling it a “mandatory upgrade” but not a standalone classic.
PlayPile's Take
It’s a niche pick for retro FPS/RPG fans or those already invested in the Hexen universe. At under $15 on some platforms, it’s a low-risk buy for collectors. Multiplayer remains its strongest point, but the dated gameplay might frustrate modern players. If you missed it in the 90s and aren’t hooked on first-person shooters, skip it. Otherwise, it’s a decent artifact of early 3D gaming, best played in short bursts.
Game Modes
Single player, Multiplayer
IGDB Rating
70.2
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