The Resurgence of the Doom Franchise
The Doom franchise has been a staple of the gaming industry for decades, with the first game released in 1993. Since then, the series has undergone numerous iterations, with varying degrees of success. However, in recent years, id Software has managed to revitalize the franchise, releasing two critically acclaimed titles: DOOM 2016 and Doom Eternal. Both games have been praised for their fast-paced action, intense combat, and nostalgic value. But with two excellent options available, the question arises: which one should you play?
The Original Reboot: DOOM 2016
Released in 2016, DOOM marked a significant departure from the franchise’s previous titles. The game was built from the ground up, with a renewed focus on speed, agility, and brutal combat. id Software’s decision to reboot the series paid off, as DOOM 2016 received widespread critical acclaim for its:
Fantastic Gameplay Mechanics
The game’s combat system was praised for its fluidity and responsiveness, making it a joy to dispatch hordes of demons with the game’s wide range of weapons. The addition of Glory Kills, a mechanic that rewards players for performing stylish executions, added a new layer of depth to the combat.
Immersive Atmosphere and Sound Design
DOOM 2016’s atmosphere was heavily influenced by the industrial and metal music genres, creating a sense of tension and foreboding that perfectly complemented the game’s fast-paced action. The sound design was equally impressive, with the iconic sound effects of the Doom franchise making a triumphant return.
A Well-Crafted Narrative
The game’s narrative, although not overly complex, provided a solid foundation for the game’s events, exploring themes of demonic invasion, corporate greed, and the protagonist’s journey to stop the forces of hell.
The Sequel: Doom Eternal
Released in 2020, Doom Eternal built upon the foundations laid by DOOM 2016, introducing a range of new features, mechanics, and improvements. The game’s critical reception was equally positive, with many considering it an even better game than its predecessor.
Improved Combat Mechanics
Doom Eternal took the already excellent combat system of DOOM 2016 and refined it, introducing new weapons, abilities, and features such as:
Increased Mobility
The addition of a grappling hook and a dash ability allowed players to navigate the game’s environments with even greater speed and agility.
Enhanced Weapon Customization
Players could now customize their weapons with mods, providing a greater degree of flexibility in combat.
A More Expansive Narrative
Doom Eternal’s narrative was more extensive than its predecessor, exploring the consequences of the events of DOOM 2016 and delving deeper into the lore of the Doom universe.
Enhanced Visuals and Performance
The game’s visuals were noticeably improved, with more detailed environments, characters, and special effects. The performance was also optimized, making for a smoother gaming experience.
So, Which One Should You Play?
Now that we’ve discussed the merits of both games, the question remains: which one should you play? The answer ultimately depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a gaming experience.
If You’re New to the Series
If you’re new to the Doom franchise, I would recommend starting with DOOM 2016. This game provides a more streamlined experience, with a more focused narrative and gameplay mechanics that are easier to grasp. Additionally, the game’s atmosphere and sound design are still very much intact, making it an excellent introduction to the series.
If You’re a Hardcore Doom Fan
If you’re a hardcore Doom fan, or if you’ve already played DOOM 2016, then Doom Eternal is the way to go. The game’s improved combat mechanics, enhanced narrative, and expanded features make it a more engaging and challenging experience. The game’s increased difficulty will also appeal to players looking for a greater challenge.
If You’re Short on Time
If you’re short on time, or if you’re looking for a more concise experience, then DOOM 2016 might be the better option. The game’s campaign is shorter than Doom Eternal’s, lasting around 10-12 hours, compared to Doom Eternal’s 15-20 hours.
In Conclusion
Both DOOM 2016 and Doom Eternal are exceptional games that offer unique experiences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a gaming experience. If you’re new to the series, start with DOOM 2016. If you’re a hardcore Doom fan, or if you’re looking for a more challenging experience, then Doom Eternal is the way to go.
Whichever game you choose, you can’t go wrong. Both titles are sure to provide you with an unforgettable gaming experience, filled with intense action, brutal combat, and a healthy dose of nostalgia. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to rip and tear!
What is the main difference between Doom Eternal and DOOM 2016?
The main difference between Doom Eternal and DOOM 2016 lies in their gameplay mechanics and level design. Doom Eternal features more complex level designs with multiple layers and verticality, allowing for more exploration and discovery. In contrast, DOOM 2016 has more linear level design with a greater emphasis on fast-paced action.
Additionally, Doom Eternal introduces new features such as dash abilities, extra lives, and a more emphasis on exploration and puzzle-solving. DOOM 2016, on the other hand, focuses more on pure, intense action with a greater emphasis on combat. These differences in gameplay mechanics and level design significantly impact the overall gaming experience.
Which game has better graphics?
Doom Eternal has slightly better graphics than DOOM 2016. The game takes advantage of more advanced graphics technologies, such as ray tracing and improved lighting effects. This results in more detailed environments, characters, and special effects. However, the difference in graphics quality is not drastic, and DOOM 2016 still looks great even today.
That being said, the improved graphics in Doom Eternal do enhance the overall gaming experience. The more detailed environments and characters make the game feel more immersive, and the improved lighting effects add to the game’s atmosphere. If graphics quality is a major concern for you, then Doom Eternal is the better choice.
Which game has a better storyline?
DOOM 2016 has a more straightforward and simple storyline compared to Doom Eternal. The game’s narrative is focused on the Doom Slayer’s quest for revenge against the demons that have invaded Mars. The story is minimalistic, but it works well in setting the tone for the game’s intense action.
Doom Eternal, on the other hand, has a more complex and convoluted storyline. The game introduces new characters, plot twists, and a deeper lore that expands on the Doom universe. While the story is more ambitious, it can also be overwhelming at times. If you prefer a more straightforward narrative, then DOOM 2016 is the better choice.
Which game has better multiplayer?
DOOM 2016 has a more traditional multiplayer mode, where players can compete against each other in various game modes. The multiplayer is fast-paced and action-packed, but it is somewhat limited in its options and features.
Doom Eternal, on the other hand, introduces a new multiplayer mode called Battlemode, where one player takes on the role of the Doom Slayer, while two other players control demons. This mode adds a new twist to the traditional multiplayer formula and can be a lot of fun. However, the multiplayer community for Doom Eternal is smaller compared to DOOM 2016.
Is Doom Eternal more challenging than DOOM 2016?
Yes, Doom Eternal is more challenging than DOOM 2016. The game features more complex level designs, tougher enemies, and a greater emphasis on strategy and exploration. The game’s increased difficulty is due to the introduction of new enemy types, such as the Marauder and the Gladiator, which require different tactics to defeat.
Additionally, Doom Eternal has a steeper learning curve compared to DOOM 2016. The game requires players to master new skills, such as the dash ability, and to use their weapons and upgrades more strategically. If you’re looking for a greater challenge, then Doom Eternal is the better choice.
Can I play Doom Eternal without playing DOOM 2016?
Yes, you can play Doom Eternal without playing DOOM 2016. While the game is a sequel, it is designed to be a standalone experience. The game’s storyline is self-contained, and the gameplay mechanics are introduced gradually, making it easy for new players to jump in.
That being said, playing DOOM 2016 first can provide some context and background information that can enhance your understanding and appreciation of Doom Eternal’s storyline and gameplay mechanics. However, it is not necessary to play the first game to enjoy the sequel.
Which game is more replayable?
Doom Eternal is more replayable than DOOM 2016. The game features a level rating system, where players can complete levels to achieve a certain rating, such as completion time or number of secrets found. This adds a lot of replay value to the game, as players can try to improve their scores and unlock new rewards.
Additionally, Doom Eternal has a greater variety of levels, enemies, and secrets, which makes each playthrough feel fresh and exciting. The game also has a higher difficulty level, which means that players will need to develop new strategies and tactics to complete the game on higher difficulty levels.