Is Doom 2016 a Good Game? A Deep Dive into a Modern Classic

Absolutely. Doom (2016) isn’t just a good game; it’s a phenomenal one. It’s a masterclass in first-person shooter (FPS) design, a blistering ballet of bullets and blood, and a triumphant return to form for a franchise that helped define the genre. It successfully revitalized the core tenets of the original Doom while incorporating modern sensibilities, resulting in an experience that’s both nostalgic and utterly fresh.

What Makes Doom (2016) Great?

Several factors contribute to Doom (2016)’s excellence:

• Relentless Action: From the moment you grab your first weapon, the game throws you into a constant onslaught of demonic hordes. There’s rarely a moment to breathe, encouraging aggressive, proactive gameplay. “Glory Kills,” brutal melee executions, reward aggression and provide health, armor, and ammo, ensuring you stay in the fight.

• Satisfying Combat Loop: The gameplay loop is expertly crafted. Enemies are challenging and varied, requiring you to master different weapons and tactics. The level design promotes constant movement and strategic positioning. The combination of these elements creates a satisfying and addictive experience.

• Weapon Variety and Upgrade System: Doom (2016) features a wide array of weapons, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. These weapons can be further customized with mods that dramatically alter their functionality, allowing players to tailor their loadout to their preferred playstyle. A robust upgrade system for both the player and weapons allows for continued progression and customization throughout the campaign.

• Stunning Visuals and Performance: Powered by the id Tech 6 engine, Doom (2016) is a visual feast. The environments are detailed and atmospheric, the demon designs are terrifying and imaginative, and the performance is buttery smooth, even on modest hardware.

• Heavy Metal Soundtrack: The soundtrack, composed by Mick Gordon, is a relentless barrage of heavy metal that perfectly complements the on-screen carnage. It’s not just background music; it’s an integral part of the experience, driving the adrenaline-fueled action.

• Respectful to its Roots: While modernizing the franchise, Doom (2016) remains true to the spirit of the original games. It embraces the fast-paced action, over-the-top violence, and demonic themes that made the original Doom so iconic.

• Challenging Difficulty: Doom (2016) offers a range of difficulty options, catering to both newcomers and veterans of the genre. Even on the lower difficulties, the game provides a satisfying challenge, while the higher difficulties demand mastery of the game’s mechanics. The infamous Ultra-Nightmare difficulty, with its permadeath feature, offers an intense and rewarding experience for those who dare to attempt it.

Why Doom (2016) Still Holds Up

In a market flooded with shooters, Doom (2016) continues to stand out for its focused design and unwavering commitment to delivering a pure, unadulterated FPS experience. It doesn’t rely on gimmicks or trends; it simply executes its core mechanics to near perfection. This timeless quality ensures that Doom (2016) remains a relevant and enjoyable game years after its release. It highlights how game design principles can work across various applications, as discussed on the Games Learning Society website: https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.

Doom (2016): A Must-Play for FPS Fans

Whether you’re a longtime Doom fan or a newcomer to the series, Doom (2016) is a must-play. It’s a visceral, exhilarating, and unforgettable experience that sets a new standard for the FPS genre.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Doom (2016)

1. Is Doom 2016 better than Doom Eternal?

This is subjective, but many argue Doom (2016) offers a more grounded and focused experience, while Doom Eternal expands the lore and introduces more complex gameplay mechanics. Doom (2016) is often praised for its atmosphere and tighter campaign, while Doom Eternal is lauded for its expanded mobility and combat options.

2. Is Doom 2016 harder than Doom Eternal?

Opinions vary, but some players find Doom (2016) harder, especially on Nightmare difficulty. Resource management can be more challenging in Doom (2016), while Doom Eternal demands more strategic weapon usage and movement.

3. Is Doom 2016 a short game?

Doom (2016’s) campaign is typically around 11-13 hours long for a standard playthrough. Completionists aiming for 100% can expect to spend around 27 hours.

4. What made Doom (2016) a big deal?

Its return to the fast-paced, brutal action of the original Doom games, combined with stunning graphics, a killer soundtrack, and a satisfying combat loop, resonated with players and critics alike. It proved that the classic FPS formula could still be relevant and exciting in the modern gaming landscape.

5. Is Doom 2016 ok for a 12 year old?

Doom (2016) is rated Mature (M) for violence and gore. While some younger players may enjoy the gameplay, parents should be aware of the graphic content and consider whether it is appropriate for their child. The GamesLearningSociety.org promotes the educational use of games, but always with attention to age appropriateness.

6. Which Doom is the most difficult?

The classic Doom levels, particularly those from Plutonia Experiment and TNT Evilution, are notoriously difficult. However, some players also find Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal challenging on higher difficulties.

7. Is Doom 2016 Nightmare hard?

Yes, many players consider Doom (2016) on Nightmare difficulty to be very challenging, particularly due to the limited resources and aggressive enemy AI.

8. Which is the best Doom to play?

This depends on personal preference. Doom (2016) is often considered a great starting point for newcomers due to its accessibility and modern design.

9. Is Doom 2016 violent?

Yes, Doom (2016) is extremely violent and features graphic depictions of gore and demonic dismemberment.

10. Should I play Doom 3 before Doom 2016?

No, Doom 3 is a standalone title with a different tone and gameplay style. Doom (2016) is a reboot and doesn’t require any prior knowledge of the series.

11. How many hours is Doom 2016?

Around 11-13 hours for the main story and approximately 27 hours for 100% completion.

12. Which Doom to play first?

Doom (2016) is an excellent choice for newcomers. It serves as a great introduction to the series’ core elements while offering a modern and polished experience.

13. Which Doom is Brutal Doom?

Brutal Doom is a mod for the original Doom (1993), not Doom (2016).

14. Should I play Doom 2016 after Doom Eternal?

Yes, playing Doom (2016) after Doom Eternal can still be enjoyable. Just be aware that Doom (2016) is slower-paced and has a different focus than Doom Eternal.

15. What is the plot of Doom 2016?

The player assumes the role of the Doom Slayer, resurrected to combat a demonic invasion on Mars, unleashed by a UAC research facility experimenting with energy from Hell. The Doom Slayer’s mission is to cleanse the facility and prevent the demons from reaching Earth.