Doom 64 and Doom (2016): Untangling the Canon
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Yes, Doom 64 is definitively considered canon alongside Doom, Doom II, Doom (2016), and Doom Eternal. This placement within the official timeline wasn’t always clear, but the release of Doom Eternal and its explicit connections to Doom 64 cemented its place in the Doom mythos. The inclusion of Doom 64 as a pre-order bonus for Doom Eternal, complete with a new campaign episode, solidified its canonical status.
The Evolution of Doom Canon
The concept of “canon” within the Doom franchise has always been somewhat fluid. The original games, Doom and Doom II, prioritized gameplay over a deeply intricate story. As such, the narrative was largely driven by player interpretation and a loose understanding of the Doomguy’s motivations: rip and tear. As the franchise expanded with Doom 64, Doom 3, and eventually the reboot in Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal, the question of how these games fit together became a topic of considerable debate among fans.
Initially, Doom 3 was widely considered a reboot, existing in a separate timeline from the original trilogy. Doom 64, though a direct sequel to Doom II in terms of gameplay, was sometimes regarded as a spin-off due to its development being handled by Midway Games rather than id Software. However, Doom Eternal’s narrative threads brought everything together, retroactively fitting previous entries into a cohesive (though still gloriously chaotic) whole.
The evidence pointing to Doom 64’s canonicity lies within Doom Eternal itself. The Slayer’s history, revealed through codex entries and environmental details, references events and artifacts that directly relate to the events of Doom 64. The expansion campaign included with the Doom 64 rerelease provides additional context, linking directly into the overarching narrative of the Slayer’s eternal war against Hell.
Doom (2016) as a Soft Reboot and Continuation
Doom (2016) is often described as a soft reboot of the series. It reintroduces the core elements of the franchise – fast-paced combat, hordes of demons, and the relentless Doom Slayer – while updating the presentation and narrative for a modern audience.
The game doesn’t completely disregard the events of previous Doom games. It cleverly incorporates elements from the classic trilogy, including the original Doomguy and the implication that the Doom Slayer is the same marine who battled the forces of Hell in the original games.
Doom (2016) establishes a new timeline setting, placing the events in the 22nd century (2140s). It also refines the Doom Slayer’s backstory, revealing his ancient origins and his role as a champion against the forces of Hell across countless eons. This broader context allows for the inclusion of events from Doom 64, which can now be viewed as part of the Slayer’s long and bloody journey.
The Importance of Gameplay over Story
While the canonicity of Doom 64 and its relationship to Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal is a fascinating topic, it’s important to remember that Doom has always prioritized gameplay over story. The narrative serves as a framework for the action, providing a loose justification for the endless demon-slaying. The primary focus remains on delivering a visceral and exhilarating experience, pushing the boundaries of fast-paced first-person shooter gameplay.
The inconsistencies and retcons within the Doom lore are often overlooked by fans, who are more interested in the thrill of the combat and the satisfaction of obliterating hordes of demons. This emphasis on gameplay is what has kept the Doom franchise relevant and engaging for decades, transcending the need for a perfectly consistent or meticulously detailed narrative. The Games Learning Society acknowledges the importance of engaging gameplay within the education field and its effect on participants. To learn more, please visit GamesLearningSociety.org.
FAQs: Doom 64 and the Doom Canon
Is Doom 64 the same as Doom (1993)?
No, while Doom 64 uses the Doom Engine as its base, it is a different game with completely new levels, enemies, and weapons. It also takes advantage of the Nintendo 64’s hardware to offer enhanced graphics and effects compared to the original Doom.
Is Doom 64 a spin-off?
Originally, Doom 64 was sometimes considered a spin-off due to its development by Midway Games. However, its integration into the official Doom timeline with Doom Eternal’s release has elevated its status beyond a simple spin-off.
Does Doom 64 have any connection to Doom Eternal?
Yes, Doom 64 is now directly connected to Doom Eternal through the extra campaign included with the Doom 64 rerelease. This campaign provides a bridge between the events of Doom 64 and the Slayer’s reawakening in Doom (2016).
Is Doom (2016) a direct sequel to Doom 3?
While Doom (2016) includes some references to Doom 3, it is not a direct sequel. It is more accurately described as a soft reboot that reinterprets the Doom universe while incorporating elements from all previous games.
What Doom games are considered non-canon?
The games most frequently cited as non-canon are Doom 3 and the obscure RPG spin-offs (Doom RPG and Doom II RPG). However, some elements of Doom 3 have been retroactively incorporated into the Doom lore.
Is Doomguy the same person in every Doom game?
The identity of Doomguy/Doom Slayer across the entire franchise is intentionally vague, allowing for interpretation. Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal suggest that the Doom Slayer is an ancient warrior who has been fighting Hell for eons, and he is the same marine from the original Doom games.
Does Doomguy ever talk?
In the classic Doom games, Doomguy is mostly silent. In Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal, he expresses his personality through his actions and his brutal efficiency in combat. He rarely speaks, preferring to let his weapons do the talking.
Why is Doom 64 called Doom 64?
Doom 64 was named after the Nintendo 64 console for which it was originally developed.
What makes Doom 64 different from the original Doom games?
Doom 64 features new levels, enemies, weapons, and a darker atmosphere compared to the original Doom games. It also takes advantage of the Nintendo 64’s hardware to offer enhanced graphics and effects.
Is Doom (2016) a remake of the original Doom?
No, Doom (2016) is not a remake. It is a reimagining of the Doom formula, with new levels, enemies, weapons, and a refined combat system.
Why is Doom (2016) so highly regarded?
Doom (2016) is praised for its fast-paced combat, its emphasis on “push-forward combat,” its impressive graphics, and its faithful recreation of the spirit of the original Doom games.
Is Doom Eternal a sequel to Doom (2016)?
Yes, Doom Eternal is a direct sequel to Doom (2016), continuing the story of the Doom Slayer and his fight against Hell.
How old is the Doom Slayer?
The Doom Slayer’s age is not explicitly stated, but it is implied that he is an ancient warrior who has been fighting Hell for countless eons.
Does Doom 3 contradict the canon of the original Doom games?
Doom 3 was originally considered a reboot, existing in a separate timeline. However, elements of Doom 3 have been retroactively incorporated into the Doom lore, blurring the lines between the different timelines.
What is “push-forward combat” in Doom (2016)?
“Push-forward combat” refers to the game’s design that encourages players to constantly move forward and engage enemies aggressively, rather than taking cover or waiting for health to regenerate. This promotes a fast-paced and relentless style of gameplay.