hexen

Hexen is the German plural noun meaning witches. In English usage, the term appears as the title of a video game series as well. The Hexen video game series is a set of fantasy-themed first-person shooters developed by Raven Software in the 1990s.

The first title, Hexen: Beyond Heretic, was released in 1995. Built on a modified Doom engine, it is noted for hub-based level design, vertical exploration, and a three-class system—Fighter, Cleric, and Mage—each with distinct weapons and magic. An expansion, Deathkings of the Dark Citadel, followed in 1996, adding new chapters, enemies, and items.

Hexen II, released in 1997, is a standalone sequel developed by Raven Software and using an engine related to id Tech 2. It preserves the fantasy atmosphere while offering updated graphics and gameplay, a different storyline, and expanded environments. Across the series, Hexen is recognized for its atmospheric level design, puzzle elements, and multiplayer modes that complemented its single-player campaigns.

In broader use, Hexen remains the German term for witches (die Hexen) and can appear in folklore, literature, and popular culture when referring to witchcraft or witch-like figures.