Did DOOM Eternal Sell Well? A Deep Dive into the Game’s Success
Yes, DOOM Eternal was a significant commercial success, exceeding expectations and solidifying its place as a top-tier title in the franchise. While exact sales figures are not always publicly disclosed by publishers, available data and industry reports paint a clear picture: DOOM Eternal sold very well, becoming the best-selling game in the DOOM series. Let’s explore the evidence and the factors contributing to its impressive performance.
Early Sales and Market Performance
Initially, the game showed strong momentum. SuperData estimated that by March 2020, DOOM Eternal had sold 3 million digital copies worldwide. This impressive launch performance surpassed the 957,000 units sold by 2016’s Doom during its launch month, establishing a new benchmark for the series. Furthermore, DOOM Eternal was the fourth-highest-grossing console game of March 2020, proving its immediate appeal and commercial viability.
Revenue Generated
The game’s financial success became even more evident with reports about its revenue generation. According to the LinkedIn profile of former id Software Monetization Designer, David Saunders, DOOM Eternal earned over $450 million in revenue within its first nine months of sale. This figure underscores not only the game’s popularity but also its ability to translate that popularity into substantial financial gains. This financial achievement is a testament to its high production values, engaging gameplay, and the strong brand recognition of the DOOM franchise.
Factors Contributing to DOOM Eternal’s Success
Several elements contributed to the game’s strong sales performance:
- Highly Anticipated Release: Following the success of the 2016 Doom reboot, there was considerable anticipation for DOOM Eternal. This excitement generated strong pre-orders and launch day purchases.
- Critically Acclaimed Gameplay: The game garnered praise for its fast-paced, intense, and rewarding gameplay loop. Critics lauded the refined combat mechanics, the variety of enemies, and the overall level of challenge. The unique “push-forward” combat where players are encouraged to be aggressive and use all their available resources resonated with players.
- Visually Stunning Presentation: DOOM Eternal is a visual feast, with detailed environments and demonic creatures. The game’s graphical prowess contributed to an immersive experience that players valued.
- Addictive Gameplay Loop: The core gameplay was incredibly addictive and was praised for how it made fans want to play the game over and over again, leading to the formation of a passionate and engaged community.
- Solid Marketing Campaign: Bethesda Softworks conducted a robust marketing campaign to promote the game’s release. This included trailers, gameplay demos, and collaborations with influencers, ensuring wide visibility for the game.
- Platform Availability: The game was made available on various platforms, including PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC, expanding its reach to a broad audience.
Comparison to Previous Doom Games
The sales figures and critical acclaim of DOOM Eternal are even more impressive when placed into the context of the entire series. While earlier Doom titles, such as Doom 3, which sold over 3.5 million copies, were also considered commercial successes in their respective eras, DOOM Eternal has surpassed the sales and revenues of them all. Even the original Ultimate Doom, which sold 788,000 copies, and Doom, which sold 1.1 million while being very successful for their time, fall short of the monumental numbers achieved by DOOM Eternal. Bethesda Softworks has officially confirmed that DOOM Eternal is the best-selling game in the franchise, doubling the sales numbers of the 2016 reboot over the weekend.
Legacy and Impact
The success of DOOM Eternal not only benefited Bethesda and id Software but also had a broader impact on the gaming industry. The game proved that there is still a strong market for fast-paced, single-player shooters with a focus on challenging gameplay. Its success has likely influenced the development of other titles, and it has revitalized interest in the DOOM franchise, ensuring its continued relevance in the gaming world. Furthermore, the success of DOOM Eternal and 2016’s Doom have helped usher in a renewed interest in a hyper-violent style of gameplay.
FAQs: All About DOOM Eternal’s Success and More
To provide a more comprehensive understanding of DOOM Eternal and the Doom franchise, here are some frequently asked questions:
1. How many copies of DOOM Eternal were sold at launch?
While the exact number of copies sold at launch is not publicly available, SuperData estimated that DOOM Eternal sold 3 million digital copies worldwide in March 2020. This figure surpassed the sales of the 2016 Doom during its launch month.
2. What is the total revenue generated by DOOM Eternal?
Within its first nine months on sale, DOOM Eternal earned over $450 million in revenue, according to the LinkedIn profile of former id Software Monetization Designer, David Saunders.
3. Is DOOM Eternal the best-selling game in the Doom franchise?
Yes, Bethesda Softworks has officially announced that DOOM Eternal is the best-selling game in the DOOM franchise.
4. Which Doom game sold the most before DOOM Eternal?
Before DOOM Eternal, Doom 3 was the most successful game by id Software, with over 3.5 million copies sold.
5. How many copies of the original Doom and Ultimate Doom were sold?
The original Doom sold around 1.1 million copies, and Ultimate Doom sold 788,000 copies.
6. What platforms is DOOM Eternal available on?
DOOM Eternal is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC.
7. Why was DOOM Eternal so popular?
DOOM Eternal gained popularity due to its addictive gameplay, stunning visuals, challenging combat, engaging soundtrack, and the strong franchise name.
8. How does DOOM Eternal compare to Doom (2016)?
While both games are highly regarded, DOOM Eternal has a more amplified and fast-paced vision while DOOM (2016) was considered more polished. Some players appreciate the more refined approach of the 2016 title.
9. Is DOOM Eternal a difficult game?
Yes, DOOM Eternal is known for its high level of difficulty, featuring challenging combat encounters that demand skillful resource management and quick reflexes.
10. What is considered the hardest DOOM game level?
Some of the hardest levels in the classic Doom games include Plutonia Experiment – Map32: Go 2 It, TNT Evilution – Map09: Stronghold, and Ultimate Doom – E4M1: Hell Beneath.
11. Will there be a sequel to DOOM Eternal?
It is rumored that the next Doom title is called DOOM Year Zero, possibly being a direct sequel to DOOM Eternal. The release date is speculated to be late 2025.
12. How is DOOM Eternal different from DOOM 3?
DOOM Eternal is a fast-paced shooter with an emphasis on aggressive combat, while DOOM 3 is a slower-paced game that focuses on horror elements.
13. Is Doom Eternal a AAA game?
Yes, DOOM Eternal is considered a AAA title due to its high production value, large budget, and wide availability.
14. Is DOOM Eternal the most violent game ever created?
While the game is known for its brutally violent combat, whether it is “the most” violent game is subjective. However, it is widely recognized as one of the most violent games ever created.
15. When was DOOM 4 released?
The 2016 reboot of the series, simply titled Doom, was released in May 2016.
In conclusion, DOOM Eternal was a resounding success both commercially and critically. Its achievements speak to the dedication of its developers, the enduring appeal of the franchise, and the high demand for compelling single-player experiences. Its legacy will continue to influence the action shooter genre for years to come.