Which Doom is Doom Eternal? Unraveling the Connections in the Demon-Slaying Saga

Doom Eternal is, most directly, the sequel to Doom (2016) and the seventh main installment in the overarching Doom series. However, its relationship to the wider franchise is far more nuanced than a simple numerical progression. It acts as a direct continuation of the narrative established in Doom (2016), while simultaneously weaving in elements and lore from the classic Doom games (Doom, Doom II: Hell on Earth, and Doom 64), positioning the Doom Slayer as the same character from those original titles. It also provides a soft retcon, where it explains how ALL games in the series are connected. It isn’t a remake of any specific Doom title, but rather a reimagining and continuation of the core Doom experience with modern gameplay mechanics, enhanced graphics, and an expanded universe. Essentially, Doom Eternal is Doom, evolved.

Understanding Doom Eternal’s Place in the Doom Universe

To fully grasp Doom Eternal’s identity, it’s crucial to understand its relationship with the other games in the series:

Doom (1993), Doom II: Hell on Earth (1994), and Doom 64 (1997): These classic titles established the foundational lore, fast-paced gameplay, and relentless demon-slaying action. Doom Eternal explicitly connects to these games by establishing the protagonist of these games, the “Doomguy,” as the same individual as the Doom Slayer. They are not remade in Eternal, but can be played inside Eternal if you can unlock the cheat codes.
Doom 3 (2004): While Doom 3 offers a more horror-oriented and narrative-driven reimagining of the original Doom, Doom Eternal acknowledges its existence but does not directly build upon its storyline.
Doom (2016): This game serves as a soft reboot of the franchise, re-establishing the Doom Slayer as a force of nature and revitalizing the series with its aggressive combat loop and metal soundtrack. Doom Eternal is a direct sequel to Doom (2016), continuing its story and expanding upon its gameplay mechanics.

Doom Eternal takes the core essence of the Doom franchise – fast-paced combat, relentless demon hordes, and a heavy metal aesthetic – and amplifies it to eleven. It builds upon the foundation laid by Doom (2016) while drawing inspiration and acknowledging the legacy of the classic Doom games. It expands the lore, introduces new enemies and environments, and refines the gameplay to create a unique and unforgettable Doom experience. If you’re interested in how games impact learning, organizations such as the Games Learning Society are great resources. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.

Doom Eternal: More Than Just a Sequel

Doom Eternal isn’t just a numerical sequel; it’s an ambitious evolution of the Doom formula. While maintaining the core principles of fast-paced, aggressive combat, it introduces several new features and mechanics:

Traversal Mechanics: Doom Eternal introduces platforming elements, requiring players to navigate complex environments using double jumps, dashing, and wall climbing.
Resource Management: Ammo, health, and armor are scarcer in Doom Eternal, forcing players to master the “Glory Kill,” “Flame Belch,” and “Chainsaw” mechanics to replenish their resources.
Enemy Weaknesses: Each enemy type has specific weaknesses that players can exploit to deal massive damage or disable them. This encourages strategic thinking and weapon selection.
Expanded Lore: Doom Eternal delves deeper into the lore of the Doom universe, exploring the origins of the Doom Slayer, the history of the Maykrs, and the nature of Hell.

These new elements contribute to a more strategic and challenging gameplay experience, encouraging players to adapt and master the intricacies of the combat system.

Doom Eternal FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Is Doom Eternal just Doom 2?

No, Doom Eternal is not just a remake of Doom 2. While it shares thematic similarities with Doom 2: Hell on Earth (specifically, the invasion of Earth by demonic forces), it is a completely new game with a unique storyline, gameplay mechanics, and expanded lore. It does, however, acknowledge Doom 2’s significance in the Doom canon.

Is Doom Eternal the same as Doom 2016?

No, although Doom Eternal is a direct continuation of Doom (2016), it features different combat mechanics, graphics, and a more complex storyline. Eternal introduces platforming elements, resource management challenges, and expanded lore, setting it apart from its predecessor.

Are Doom 1 and 2 in Doom Eternal?

Yes, Doom 1 and Doom 2 can be unlocked and played within Doom Eternal, but they aren’t immediately accessible. Players need to unlock all the cheat codes to unlock Doom 1, which can then be accessed via a computer in the Doom Slayer’s Fortress of Doom.

Is Doom Eternal a remake of Doom 1?

No, Doom Eternal is not a remake of Doom 1. It is a sequel to Doom (2016) and the seventh main installment in the Doom series. It features a new storyline, gameplay mechanics, and expanded lore.

Is Doom 3 a retelling of Doom 1?

Doom 3 is a reimagining of the original Doom, offering a more horror-oriented and narrative-driven experience. It is not a direct retelling of Doom 1, but rather a separate interpretation of the core Doom themes and concepts.

Should I play Doom 1 before Eternal?

While playing Doom 1 before Doom Eternal can provide context for the Doom universe and the origins of the Doom Slayer, it is not essential. Doom Eternal’s storyline is relatively self-contained, and the game introduces most of the important lore elements. If you’re new to the series, starting with Doom (2016) or Doom Eternal might be more enjoyable due to their modern gameplay mechanics and graphics.

Are Doom 2016 and Eternal connected?

Yes, Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal are directly connected. Doom Eternal continues the story of the Doom Slayer after the events of Doom (2016), with the Slayer embarking on a mission to stop Hell’s invasion of Earth and foil the plans of the Maykrs.

Should I buy Doom or Doom Eternal first?

If you’re new to the series, consider starting with Doom (2016). It offers a more accessible entry point with simpler combat mechanics and a tighter focus. However, if you’re looking for the latest and greatest Doom experience, with enhanced gameplay, expanded lore, and more challenging combat, Doom Eternal is the way to go.

Are you Doomguy in Doom 3?

No, the Doomguy in the Doom 3 expansion, Resurrection of Evil, is a different character than the Marine in the main Doom 3 game. He’s portrayed as an older, more experienced combat engineer.

Should I get Doom 2016 or Doom Eternal?

This depends on your preferences. Doom (2016) offers a more polished and streamlined experience, while Doom Eternal is more ambitious and complex. If you prefer fast-paced action with simpler mechanics and a focus on atmosphere, choose Doom (2016). If you crave a more challenging and strategic experience with expanded lore and platforming elements, choose Doom Eternal.

Should I play Doom 1 before 2?

Playing Doom 1 before Doom 2 is recommended, but not essential. Doom 2 continues the story of Doom 1 and introduces new enemies and environments. While the storyline is relatively simple, playing Doom 1 will provide context and appreciation for the evolution of the series.

Is Doom 2016 more brutal than Doom Eternal?

Doom Eternal is generally considered to be more brutal and gory than Doom (2016). The environments are brighter, allowing for more visible gore, and the combat is even more visceral and over-the-top.

Is Doom 2016 a reboot or sequel?

Doom (2016) is considered a soft reboot of the Doom series, re-establishing the Doom Slayer as the protagonist and revitalizing the franchise. It continues from Doom 3, but mostly follows the protagonist of the 90’s trilogy (Doom, Doom II and Doom 64.), retroactively renamed the Doom Slayer.

Is Doom Eternal the end?

While Doom Eternal: The Ancient Gods Part Two concludes the story arc that began in Doom (2016), it does not necessarily mark the end of the Doom Slayer’s story. The ending leaves the door open for future installments, and the developers have hinted at the possibility of continuing the series.

Which version of Doom Eternal should I get?

If you’re looking for the complete Doom Eternal experience, consider getting the Deluxe Edition. It includes the base game, the Year One Pass (which grants access to the two single-player campaign expansions), the Demon Slayer Skin, and the Classic Weapons Sound Pack.