Classic 1998 Action RPG Hexplore Drops to Around $1 on Steam for the First Time
Old-school RPG fans looking for a budget-friendly nostalgia trip may want to take a look at Hexplore, a 1998 action RPG that is currently 85% off on Steam until August 28. The discount brings the game down to about $1.04 from its usual $6.99 price, marking its lowest Steam price so far.
Hexplore first launched in the late 1990s, an era when action RPGs focused on exploration, party management, monster battles, loot, and puzzle-solving rather than live-service systems, seasonal content, or microtransactions. The game later arrived on Steam in 2020, though without major visual upgrades or gameplay improvements. Even so, its old-school charm may appeal to players who enjoy classic isometric RPGs and retro PC gaming.
The story takes place in a medieval fantasy world around the year 1000. Players step into the role of MacBride, a Scottish adventurer traveling toward the Crusades who becomes drawn into a dangerous conflict with the dark magician Garkham. Using the mysterious Book of Hexplore, Garkham seeks the Garden of Eden and the divine power believed to be hidden there.
Gameplay is presented from an isometric perspective and centers on a party of up to four heroes. Players explore more than 200 maps, battle monsters, collect gear, solve light puzzles, and search for hidden paths. The party system adds some tactical variety, allowing players to combine different character types, including an adventurer, warrior, archer, and magician.
Despite its age and relatively low profile, Hexplore has earned a positive response from many Steam users. At the time of writing, 90% of its 51 user reviews are positive, with some players calling it a “hidden gem.” However, the small number of reviews means the rating should be taken with some caution.
The game was not universally praised when it originally released. Older reviews pointed out that its graphics were dated even for the time, and some critics felt the RPG mechanics lacked depth. The gameplay loop of exploring, fighting, and searching for keys can also become repetitive. Still, players who enjoy retro action RPGs may find its straightforward design part of the appeal.
Steam Deck compatibility is officially listed as unknown, but user reports suggest that Hexplore can be played on Valve’s handheld with some compatibility support.
For anyone interested in classic PC RPGs, isometric adventures, or forgotten fantasy games from the late 1990s, Hexplore’s current Steam discount makes it an easy low-cost pickup. At just over $1, it could be worth adding to the library before the sale ends on August 28.
