The first DOOM became one of my all-time favorite shooters the moment I'd beaten it; I was blown away by how crisp, fun, and innovative it remained, even three decades later. It's easy to understand why the game had quickly garnered such a large and dedicated fan base in `93. People were obsessed with DOOM, and they wanted more. Fortunately, they wouldn't have to wait long for a sequel.
DOOM II released exactly ten months after DOOM. With such a short time frame for the devs to work, it's no surprise that the game borrowed many of its assets and mechanics from the first. However, its gameplay additions, ambitious level designs, and brand-new soundtrack set II distinctly apart as its own experience.
One of the most immediate changes is the addition of the Super Shotgun. This powerful close-range weapon is capable of taking down entire hoardes with one blast. Being one of the most fun and useful weapons in the early years of the franchise, it's easy to understand why it became so beloved amongst fans. It has remained an integral part of Doom Guy's arsenal ever since.
II also introduced many new enemies! These included the Arch-Vile, Pain Elemental, Hell Knight, and Mancubus. It's a treat to jump from I to II and discover new challenges awaiting you, even if both have a near-identical core. Not only do these new demons make the gameplay feel more well-rounded, but they add a much-needed splash of new aesthetic.
My only real issue with DOOM II is some of its level design choices. I've seen many people assert that the first game's layouts and puzzles are too confusing, but personally, I find the second game to be a much worse offender (The City levels in particular were very frustrating for me.) I do appreciate the creativity and effort put into creating a new experience; however, I spent much more time running around aimlessly in II than I ever had in the first.
Unfortunately, this pattern continues even into the Master Levels. This expansion pack is easily the most frustrating part of either classic DOOM for me. The puzzles and maps are so obtuse and frustrating, to the point that I nearly gave up. I love the idea of including fan maps in the series, but these are wild.
Visuals: 5/5
Sound: 4.5/5
Gameplay: 4.5/5
Worldbuilding: 4.5/5
Replayability: 4/5
Overall game score: 4.5/5
The DOOM series is such an interesting and important part of gaming history. Even decades later, these first two classics hold up as some of the best FPS games I've played; they undoubtedly changed the community's landscape and trajectory forever, and for good reason.
I can't wait to experience the rest of DOOM's journey! Witnessing the jump to 3D is going to be interesting, to say the least.
DOOM II released exactly ten months after DOOM. With such a short time frame for the devs to work, it's no surprise that the game borrowed many of its assets and mechanics from the first. However, its gameplay additions, ambitious level designs, and brand-new soundtrack set II distinctly apart as its own experience.
One of the most immediate changes is the addition of the Super Shotgun. This powerful close-range weapon is capable of taking down entire hoardes with one blast. Being one of the most fun and useful weapons in the early years of the franchise, it's easy to understand why it became so beloved amongst fans. It has remained an integral part of Doom Guy's arsenal ever since.
II also introduced many new enemies! These included the Arch-Vile, Pain Elemental, Hell Knight, and Mancubus. It's a treat to jump from I to II and discover new challenges awaiting you, even if both have a near-identical core. Not only do these new demons make the gameplay feel more well-rounded, but they add a much-needed splash of new aesthetic.
My only real issue with DOOM II is some of its level design choices. I've seen many people assert that the first game's layouts and puzzles are too confusing, but personally, I find the second game to be a much worse offender (The City levels in particular were very frustrating for me.) I do appreciate the creativity and effort put into creating a new experience; however, I spent much more time running around aimlessly in II than I ever had in the first.
Unfortunately, this pattern continues even into the Master Levels. This expansion pack is easily the most frustrating part of either classic DOOM for me. The puzzles and maps are so obtuse and frustrating, to the point that I nearly gave up. I love the idea of including fan maps in the series, but these are wild.
Visuals: 5/5
Sound: 4.5/5
Gameplay: 4.5/5
Worldbuilding: 4.5/5
Replayability: 4/5
Overall game score: 4.5/5
The DOOM series is such an interesting and important part of gaming history. Even decades later, these first two classics hold up as some of the best FPS games I've played; they undoubtedly changed the community's landscape and trajectory forever, and for good reason.
I can't wait to experience the rest of DOOM's journey! Witnessing the jump to 3D is going to be interesting, to say the least.