The DOOM series is known for its excellence in all aspects. From exceptional level design to a highly recognizable visual style, this franchise has consistently stood out as a benchmark in the video game industry with each new release. This holds true for all the installments, but few can boast of reaching the very top of the charts.
DOOM 3
One of the most dramatic changes in direction within the series occurred with the release of DOOM 3 in 2004. It introduced a very different approach from what had been seen before, focusing on creating a terrifying atmosphere for players, more akin to a horror game, instead of the already stablished action.
In this video game, we see a reinterpretation of what was presented in the original installment, with events and concepts making a return. Here, we encounter a series of changes in mechanics and design compared to its predecessors. Features such as the use of a flashlight, limited ammunition, and more confined spaces were not well received by players at the time.
However, it remains a breath of fresh air and a technical revolution for its time.
DOOM (1993)
The original DOOM. After the release of Wolfenstein 3D in 1992, two young developers, John Romero and John Carmack, teamed up to create a video game that would change the industry forever. Improving upon its inspiration in every way and delivering an extremely fun experience, the game was originally divided into 3 chapters sold separately, each with 8 levels (9 including the secret ones).
This time, we are presented with a shooter featuring greater verticality and a variety of enemy-filled environments. It is worth noting the significant challenge the game offered, increasing in difficulty in a well-balanced manner as we progress.
Despite everything, no one can ignore that the game includes mechanics and concepts that feel outdated. Features like the inability to aim vertically or jump have not aged well. However, the game maintains a well-thought-out design that offers a great experience.
Currently, DOOM is one of the most ported video games in history. So, you know, if you have a rock at home, chances are you can enjoy this classic on it.
DOOM (1993) even sold more copies than the Microsoft Windows of the time
DOOM 2
The same, but better. Just ten months after the release of the first game, we witnessed one of the best sequels of all time.
DOOM 2 brought with it a perfect expansion to a wonderful formula. The massive hordes of demons looked better than ever with many new looks. Similarly, the addition of the super shotgun to the arsenal was a subtle detail that became one of the most iconic elements of the saga. Moreover, the levels in this game proved to be huge and full of creativity.
Due to its more daring design, larger scale, and colossal number of secrets, DOOM 2 proves to be an endless source of fun.
DOOM 2 (1994) was originally released for computers running the MS-DOS operating system
DOOM (2016)
A triumphant return. After a cancelled DOOM 4 and over 10 years without any updates, the king has returned. DOOM (2016) is the definitive modern adaptation of the classic video game.
In this particular case, we have a direct sequel that also revisits concepts and characters from previous entries. This video game has a story that learns from everything seen in the first-person shooter genre. Because of this, we have control at all times with minimal interruptions.
Of course, the level design continues to excel with an excess of quality, looking better graphically than ever before. In terms of gameplay, it’s amazing the variety of options the player has to confront the demons. Moreover, this game features some of the best bosses in the series, which, although few in number, are spectacular.
Perhaps the only flaw the game has is how repetitive it can become over time. Despite being amazing, the game features a visual environment that doesn’t show much variation due to a limited color palette, as well as a lack of more striking mechanics.
Despite this, DOOM (2016) comes close to perfection. Ultimately, this is a video game that clings to the most solid foundations of its genre and consistently proves to be the best. We’re glad to say that whatever little could be improved, was indeed improved later on.
DOOM ETERNAL
The most recent game in the series, DOOM Eternal, is the perfect shooter.
Released in 2020, DOOM Eternal brings us the ultimate DOOM experience. Improving and expanding upon everything seen before, this is a game you can’t get tired of. It’s a very ambitious video game, and with that in mind, it’s natural that it might feel a bit slow at first. However, once you immerse yourself in all the chapters, you’ll be hooked on the demon invasion.
The amount of content available in this title is immense. With 13 main chapters full of hidden challenges and collectibles, the main campaign can last more than twelve hours. Not to mention, of course, the expansions and various game modes we have to choose from, in which case the figure rises to tens, even hundreds of hours. In contrast to the previous game, DOOM Eternal shines with its visual and gameplay variety.
With this video game, we encounter an almost unbeatable standard of quality. It’s a clear demonstration of how works can still innovate while remaining faithful to the past. With a philosophy of respect towards the player, DOOM Eternal manages to rise to the top through its quality and content. In the end, we can only hope that the next release continues this streak, because the bar is set very high.
Did I mention that you can play the original DOOM games within DOOM Eternal?
