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Which Doom Game To Start? A Hellish (But Helpful) Guide

The answer, unequivocally, is Doom (2016). It’s the perfect entry point for newcomers and seasoned FPS veterans alike. It beautifully balances the relentless action of classic Doom with modern sensibilities, intuitive gameplay, and a story that’s engaging without being overly intrusive. It’s a fantastic starting point to understanding the appeal of Doom.

Why Doom (2016) Is the Best Starting Point

Doom (2016) achieves something remarkable: it captures the raw, adrenaline-pumping essence of the original Doom games while offering a polished and accessible experience for contemporary players. Here’s why it stands out:

Modern Controls and Mechanics: Forget clunky movement and confusing key bindings. Doom (2016) boasts smooth, responsive controls that feel natural and intuitive. You’ll be ripping and tearing through demons in no time.
Forgiving Difficulty Curve: While challenging, Doom (2016) offers a balanced difficulty curve that gradually introduces players to its core mechanics. You’ll learn how to prioritize targets, manage resources, and master the art of “glory kills” without being overwhelmed from the get-go.
Engaging Story (That Doesn’t Get in the Way): Unlike some modern FPS games, Doom (2016)’s story is delivered through environmental storytelling and optional codex entries. You can engage with the lore as much or as little as you want, without it interrupting the flow of the action.
Stunning Visuals and Sound Design: Doom (2016) is a visual masterpiece. The environments are detailed and atmospheric, the demon designs are terrifyingly creative, and the soundtrack is an absolute headbanger. The sound design is equally impressive, with every weapon firing and demon roar packing a visceral punch.
Glorious Gameplay Loop: At its heart, Doom (2016) is about constant movement, aggressive resource management, and brutal combat. The “glory kill” system encourages players to get up close and personal with demons, creating a satisfying and addictive gameplay loop.

Once you’ve conquered Doom (2016), you’ll have a solid understanding of the Doom universe and be ready to tackle other entries in the series with confidence.

Beyond Doom (2016): Exploring Other Options

While Doom (2016) is the ideal starting point, other Doom games offer unique experiences:

Doom Eternal (2020): The sequel to Doom (2016), Doom Eternal doubles down on the fast-paced action and complex combat mechanics. It’s a more challenging and demanding game, but it rewards skillful play with an even greater sense of empowerment. Recommended after Doom (2016).
The Original Doom (1993) and Doom II (1994): These are the games that started it all. While their graphics and gameplay may seem dated by today’s standards, they still offer a raw and visceral experience that’s unlike anything else. Consider these for historical appreciation after enjoying modern Doom.
Doom 3 (2004): A controversial entry in the series, Doom 3 shifts the focus to horror and atmosphere. It’s a slower-paced, more narrative-driven game that emphasizes survival and resource management. It’s a decent horror game, but not necessarily a great Doom game in the traditional sense.
Doom 64 (1997): Originally released for the Nintendo 64, Doom 64 is a hidden gem in the Doom franchise. It features unique level design, a darker atmosphere, and a killer soundtrack. The modern remaster is highly recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Starting Doom

1. Is Doom (2016) too difficult for new players?

No. Doom (2016) offers a range of difficulty settings, allowing players to tailor the experience to their skill level. Even on the lower difficulties, the game is still challenging enough to be engaging, but not so difficult that it’s frustrating. “I’m Too Young To Die” difficulty mode is very forgiving.

2. Do I need to play the older Doom games before Doom (2016)?

Absolutely not! Doom (2016) is a reboot of the series and doesn’t require any prior knowledge of the lore. You can jump right in and enjoy the game without feeling lost or confused. However, playing the original Doom games can provide valuable context and appreciation for the series’ history.

3. What’s the difference between Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal?

Doom Eternal is a direct sequel to Doom (2016), building upon its core mechanics and expanding the lore. It’s faster, more challenging, and more complex than its predecessor, introducing new weapons, abilities, and enemy types. Doom Eternal also places a greater emphasis on resource management, forcing players to constantly switch weapons and utilize their entire arsenal.

4. Is Doom 3 a good starting point for the series?

While Doom 3 is a well-made game in its own right, it’s not the best starting point for the Doom series. Its slower pace, emphasis on horror, and narrative-driven gameplay are significantly different from the fast-paced, action-oriented gameplay of the other Doom games. Start with Doom (2016) instead.

5. Where can I buy Doom (2016) and the other Doom games?

Doom (2016), Doom Eternal, and the classic Doom games are available on most major platforms, including PC (Steam, GOG), PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch. Digital distribution platforms often have sales, so keep an eye out for discounts.

6. Are there any mods available for the Doom games?

Yes! The Doom community is incredibly active and creative, producing a vast library of mods for all of the Doom games. These mods range from simple texture packs and weapon tweaks to complete overhauls that add new levels, enemies, and gameplay mechanics. GZDoom is a popular source port for running classic Doom mods.

7. What is a “source port” and why is it important for playing classic Doom?

A source port is a modified version of the original Doom engine that allows the game to run on modern hardware and operating systems. Source ports often add new features, such as improved graphics, widescreen support, and enhanced modding capabilities. Using a source port is highly recommended for playing classic Doom on modern computers.

8. Is Doom a good game for learning about game design?

Absolutely! Doom is a landmark title in game design history. Analyzing its level design, enemy placement, and weapon balance can provide valuable insights into the principles of creating engaging and challenging gameplay experiences. Many game developers cite Doom as an influence on their work. You can also learn valuable lessons about game design from the Games Learning Society, which explores games as dynamic learning environments. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.

9. What makes Doom’s soundtrack so iconic?

Doom’s soundtrack, composed by Bobby Prince and Mick Gordon (for the modern games), is iconic for its aggressive, high-energy sound that perfectly complements the game’s frenetic action. The music is a blend of heavy metal, industrial, and techno, creating a unique and unforgettable soundscape.

10. Are there any competitive multiplayer modes in the Doom games?

Yes, most of the Doom games feature competitive multiplayer modes, ranging from classic deathmatch to team-based objective modes. While the multiplayer modes in the classic Doom games are still played by a dedicated community, the multiplayer modes in Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal have received mixed reviews.

11. What is a “glory kill” in Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal?

A “glory kill” is a brutal and cinematic melee attack that can be performed on weakened enemies. Glory kills not only look cool but also reward players with health and ammo, encouraging aggressive and up-close combat.

12. Is Doom appropriate for children?

Doom is a violent and graphic game that is not appropriate for young children. The game contains blood, gore, and depictions of demonic imagery. Parental discretion is advised.

13. What’s the best controller to use for playing Doom?

The best controller for playing Doom is largely a matter of personal preference. Some players prefer the precision of a mouse and keyboard, while others prefer the comfort and familiarity of a gamepad. Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal are both well-optimized for both input methods.

14. What are some good resources for learning more about the Doom franchise?

The Doom Wiki is a comprehensive resource for all things Doom-related, including lore, characters, weapons, and levels. YouTube is also a great source for gameplay videos, reviews, and analysis of the Doom games. The Doomworld forums are a great community for finding fellow Doom fans and discussing the series.

15. What’s the future of the Doom franchise?

While there haven’t been any official announcements about a new Doom game, the success of Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal suggests that the franchise has a bright future. It’s likely that we’ll see more Doom games in the years to come, continuing the series’ legacy of fast-paced, action-packed, and demon-slaying fun.

Which Doom game to start?