Doom Review (Algiz)
DOOM, developed by id Software, marks a triumphant return to the franchise's roots, delivering a fast-paced, visceral, and utterly exhilarating first-person shooter experience. As a reboot of the iconic DOOM series, this 2016 iteration successfully blends modern graphics and gameplay mechanics with the brutal, no-nonsense action that made the original games so legendary. From its intense combat and meticulously designed levels to its relentless pace and engaging sound design, DOOM offers an unforgettable ride for fans of the genre and newcomers alike.
One of the standout features of DOOM is its exhilarating combat. Unlike many modern first-person shooters that favour cover-based shooting or slow-paced tactical play, DOOM encourages players to be aggressive and constantly on the move. The game returns to the series' roots by focusing on fast, fluid combat that rewards players for staying in constant motion. The simple yet satisfying mechanics, which involve running, jumping, and blasting demons in the face, create a thrilling sense of urgency and excitement. The "Glory Kill" mechanic, which allows players to finish off enemies in brutal, over-the-top animations, adds a layer of satisfaction to every encounter. These glory kills not only look spectacular but also replenish health, further incentivising players to dive headfirst into the fray rather than retreating to cover.
The weapon variety in DOOM is another key strength. The game features a range of iconic weapons, including the iconic shotgun, chainsaw, and the mighty BFG, as well as new and inventive additions that give players plenty of options for taking on the demonic horde. Each weapon feels distinct and powerful, with its own strengths and weaknesses, allowing players to adapt their combat style to different enemy types. The weapon upgrades and modifications provide additional depth to the gameplay, offering players the opportunity to further customise their arsenal to suit their preferences. The sense of power and satisfaction that comes from wielding these weapons is unmatched, as each shot feels impactful and destructive.
Graphically, DOOM is an absolute feast for the eyes. The game runs on the id Tech 6 engine, which enables beautifully detailed environments, smooth animations, and impressive effects. The level design is particularly noteworthy, with intricately designed maps that encourage exploration while maintaining a relentless pace. The environments are varied, ranging from hellish landscapes to the high-tech facilities of Mars, and each setting is filled with environmental storytelling that adds depth to the world. The enemies, from the iconic Imp to the terrifying Cyberdemon, are all meticulously designed, showcasing impressive animations and fluid movement that make every encounter feel alive and dangerous.
The soundtrack of DOOM is another highlight. Composed by Mick Gordon, the heavy, fast-paced metal soundtrack complements the game's relentless action perfectly. The music drives the intensity of combat, creating a sense of urgency and excitement. The thundering guitars and aggressive rhythms blend seamlessly with the gameplay, heightening the adrenaline-pumping atmosphere. The soundtrack is as much a character in the game as the protagonist, Doom Slayer himself, helping to establish the game's tone and further immersing players in the chaotic world of DOOM.
In terms of narrative, DOOM adopts a more minimalist approach compared to many modern games. The story is simple yet effective, focusing on the Doom Slayer's mission to stop a demonic invasion on Mars. While there is no overly complex plot or deep character development, the game doesn't need it. The focus is on fast action, and the story serves as the backdrop to the carnage. This streamlined approach allows the gameplay to take centre stage, and the constant barrage of demons provides a sense of purpose and momentum that keeps players engaged from start to finish.
Another key feature of DOOM is its level of challenge. The game offers a range of difficulty options, catering to both newcomers and seasoned veterans. The higher difficulty levels push players to master the combat mechanics and think strategically, ensuring that no two encounters ever feel the same. The sense of accomplishment after defeating a particularly tough enemy or surviving a difficult level is highly rewarding, and the game never feels unfair, despite its difficulty. This sense of challenge, combined with the fast-paced gameplay, makes DOOM an exhilarating experience from start to finish.
While DOOM is, in many ways, a perfect example of how to modernise a classic franchise, it does have a few minor drawbacks. Some players may find the game's lack of detailed narrative or complex characterisation to be a detractor, as it doesn’t offer the deep story-driven experience found in many modern shooters. Additionally, some may feel that the repetitiveness of certain combat scenarios can become slightly tedious as the game progresses. However, these issues are relatively minor in comparison to the overall experience, and the sheer fun and intensity of the gameplay more than make up for them.
In conclusion, DOOM is an absolute triumph for the franchise, successfully capturing the raw energy and unrelenting pace that made the original games so iconic while incorporating modern graphics, mechanics, and design sensibilities. The fluid combat, iconic weapons, stunning visuals, and intense soundtrack all come together to create a gaming experience that is pure, unadulterated fun. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the DOOM series or new to the franchise, DOOM offers an unforgettable and thrilling experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is a masterclass in first-person shooter design and a worthy addition to the DOOM legacy.