N64 Game #5/296: Hexen

This game is brutal.  While Hexen shows some technical ambition, it ultimately falls short when compared to Doom 64. The graphics, though improved over previous versions, occasionally suffer from noticeable frame rate drops. The sound design is atmospheric and generally well-executed, but it becomes erratic and choppy during save operations, which disrupts the experience.

The most serious issue, however, is a game-breaking bug. I had to do some research as I hit a point about 90 minutes in that stun-locked me into falling during a section where I tried to save.  Every time I loaded the game back up, i was falling to my death with the option to restart or reload the save.  

Since only one save slot is available per memory pack (BECAUSE HOLY FUCK this game takes nearly 70% of the pages on one memory card), this can permanently trap players in an unwinnable state, forcing them to restart the game from scratch. I encountered this issue and it was enough for me to put the controller down and say enough.  I know there are people who swear by the multiplayer, but having only played this one solo, I can't give it the glowing review I wish I could.

Rating: 6/10