Hexen for Nintendo 64 Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

Hexen is a first-person shooter game with role-playing elements, developed for the Nintendo 64 console. It is a sequel to Heretic and utilizes a modified version of the Doom engine, notably allowing players to jump. The game offers a choice of three distinct character classes, each with unique abilities and playstyles, and features a hub-based level design where players revisit areas after solving puzzles or acquiring items.

Figure 1: Hexen Nintendo 64 Game Box Art. This image displays the game's cover art, featuring a central hooded figure with a glowing orb, set against a backdrop of an archway with fiery elements, indicative of the game's dark fantasy theme.

2. Setup

To begin playing Hexen on your Nintendo 64 console, follow these steps:

1. Power Off Console: Ensure your Nintendo 64 console is powered off before inserting or removing any game cartridges.
2. Insert Cartridge: Gently insert the Hexen game cartridge into the cartridge slot on top of the Nintendo 64 console. Push down firmly until it clicks into place. Do not force the cartridge.
3. Connect Controller: Plug your Nintendo 64 controller into one of the controller ports on the front of the console.
4. Power On Console: Turn on your television and then power on the Nintendo 64 console. The game should load automatically.
5. Memory Pak (Optional): For saving game progress, ensure a Nintendo 64 Memory Pak is inserted into the controller.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Character Classes

Hexen offers three distinct character classes, each with unique attributes and combat styles:

• Warrior: Strong and fast, excelling in close-quarters combat. Lacks magical attacks.
• Mage: Weaker physically but possesses powerful, long-range magical attacks, allowing for distance combat.
• Cleric: A balanced class, combining aspects of both warrior and mage, offering a mix of physical and magical capabilities.

Artifacts in the game have varied effects depending on the chosen character class. For example, a flechette item might act as a grenade for a warrior, a bomb for a mage, or a poison gas cloud for a cleric.

3.2 Gameplay Mechanics

Unlike traditional first-person shooters of its era, Hexen incorporates "hubs" – levels that require players to return after solving puzzles or acquiring specific items to progress. This design emphasizes exploration and strategic thinking alongside combat.

The game features both single-player and multiplayer modes:

• Single Player: Navigate through the game's world, solve puzzles, and defeat enemies as your chosen character.
• Multiplayer: Engage in two- to four-player matches. The two-player split-screen mode is generally recommended for optimal experience.

3.3 Saving Progress

Game progress can be saved using a Nintendo 64 Memory Pak. It is important to note that only one save slot is typically available per Memory Pak. Refer to the Troubleshooting section for critical information regarding saving during platforming sequences.

4. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your Hexen game cartridge, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Storage: Store the cartridge in its original case or a protective sleeve when not in use to prevent dust accumulation and physical damage. Keep it away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity.
• Cleaning: If the cartridge contacts appear dirty, gently clean them with a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Allow the contacts to dry completely before reinserting the cartridge into the console. Do not use abrasive materials or harsh chemicals.
• Handling: Always handle the cartridge by its edges. Avoid touching the metal connector pins to prevent corrosion or damage from oils and dirt.

5. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues encountered during gameplay.

5.1 Save Game Bug (Critical)

WARNING: A known critical bug exists related to saving during platforming sections.

If you save your game on a platform immediately before attempting a jump, and subsequently fall during the jump, loading the saved game may place your character in the middle of the fall instead of back on the platform. Since only one save is allowed per Memory Pak, this can render your game progress unrecoverable, forcing a restart. To avoid this:

• Save Strategically: Avoid saving directly before or during challenging platforming sequences. Save after successfully completing such sections or in safe, stable areas.
• Backup Saves (If Possible): If using multiple Memory Paks or a third-party device that allows for multiple save files, consider backing up your progress before critical sections.

5.2 Performance Issues

Some players may experience occasional frame rate drops, particularly during intense action sequences or in graphically complex areas. This is a characteristic of the game's performance on the Nintendo 64 hardware and is generally not indicative of a console or cartridge malfunction.

Sound may also become choppy during save times. This is a known behavior and typically resolves once the save operation is complete.

5.3 Controls Feel Awkward

The control scheme for Hexen on the Nintendo 64 may require an adjustment period for some players. Practice and familiarity with the game's specific control layout can improve the experience.

6. Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information regarding your Hexen Nintendo 64 game cartridge, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact the retailer from whom the product was acquired. As this is a legacy product, direct manufacturer support may be limited.

For general inquiries or technical assistance related to Nintendo 64 hardware, please consult official Nintendo support resources or community forums dedicated to retro gaming.