Duke Nukem 3D Voxel Mod Showcases Stunning 3D Remaster

Duke Nukem 3D is getting a major fan-made upgrade, thanks to a new voxel mod from creator Cheello. The project, known as Voxel Duke 3D, replaces the classic game’s 2D sprite assets with 3D voxel models, creating a remaster that remains faithful to the original art style while refreshing its visuals in a striking way.

Voxel-based mods have been popular within the classic shooter community for years, with Doom and Doom II among the most well-known beneficiaries. Those games received similar fan projects that transformed their flat sprites into fully 3D voxel models without breaking their retro charm. Voxel Duke 3D continues this tradition, applying the same approach to one of the most iconic shooters of the 1990s.

What makes the mod stand out is how closely it adheres to the aesthetic of Duke Nukem 3D while still enhancing it. Characters, weapons, and environmental objects now render as three-dimensional models rather than flat images that rotate to face the player. The result is a world that feels more solid, without losing the recognizable look that defined the game nearly three decades ago.

The trailer for Voxel Duke 3D showcases just how seamless the transition looks in action. Enemies now have volume and presence, particularly when players circle-strafe around them. Instead of the rotating illusion of 2D sprites, the voxel models display depth from every angle, giving combat encounters an extra layer of immersion.

Cheello’s mod does not yet have a release date, but its progress has already attracted attention from fans eager to replay the classic with modern enhancements. While the project aims to remain authentic, many are also hoping future support could extend to features like path tracing, similar to what has been achieved with Doom’s voxel and lighting mods.

The Duke Nukem modding community has remained active over the years, delivering notable projects such as Duke Nukem 3D: Savior of Babes, Duke Nukem 3D Legacy Edition, and Duke Nukem: Horror Castle. Each introduced new levels, enemies, and gameplay tweaks that kept the retro shooter alive for dedicated fans. Voxel Duke 3D adds a new visual overhaul to that list, arguably one of the most ambitious updates to the game’s presentation yet.

Though details on compatibility and performance remain unclear, the voxel-based approach is likely to appeal to players who want a balance between authenticity and modernization. The fact that the new models look so natural alongside the classic design may even make some players forget they were once flat sprites.