One of the first games made in the Build Engine is about to be delisted
One of the first games made in the Build Engine is about to be delisted, marking a notable shift for fans of early PC gaming. Witchaven, released in September 1995, was the inaugural legal use of the Build Engine. Developed by Capstone, it blends D&D‑style dungeon maps with a first‑person melee experience that feels both nostalgic and oddly quirky.
History and significance of Witchaven
Witchaven’s historical importance lies in its pioneering adoption of the Build Engine, later powering titles such as Duke Nukem 3D, Blood, PowerSlave, and Shadow Warrior. The game is also remembered for its deliberately rough controls: “your character seems to ‘float’ to a standstill,” according to Brett Jones, who noted hit‑and‑miss targeting and occasional unintended movement. Despite these quirks, the experience offers a unique glimpse into 90s PC gaming culture.
Core gameplay highlights
- Melee focus – The knight wields morning stars, battle axes, and blades that break after use.
- Limited ranged options – A bow is available but rarely effective against the endless horde of goblins and witches.
- D&D‑derived levels – Dungeon maps from Wyrm Works serve as the backbone of the experience.
Current status and upcoming content
Publisher SNEG has confirmed that both Witchaven titles will be delisted on June 15, though the exact reason remains unclear — whether it’s a licence expiring or the arrival of remasters. Fans can still purchase the pair at steep discounts: 89% off on Steam or 90% off on GOG, effectively pulling them down from their original price.
Why the delisting matters
- Historical preservation – The titles represent early milestones in PC gaming history.
- Community impact – Removing them may affect nostalgia‑driven fan bases.
- Future alternatives – SNEG hints at possible remasters, which could replace these games.
Brett Jones’s 1996 review capped his evaluation with the memorable line: “a pig in a dress is still a pig,” underscoring that Witchaven remains a quirky footnote rather than a beloved classic.
