DOOM
" Exhilarating action shooter with fast-paced combat and rich DLC but short campaign length "
DOOM Review
DOOM (2016) is celebrated as a masterful reboot that brilliantly balances nostalgia with modern FPS mechanics. The game delivers relentless, fast-paced combat, emphasizing aggressive movement and strategic use of weapons and "Glory Kills" to maintain health and ammo. Its campaign, though somewhat short, is packed with intense encounters across detailed Martian and hellish environments. The soundtrack by Mick Gordon is widely praised for its adrenaline-pumping industrial metal that perfectly complements the gameplay. Players appreciate the smooth performance and solid optimization, with graphics that remain impressive years after release.
The story is minimalistic and straightforward, often considered secondary to gameplay but still effective for immersion. Multiplayer and SnapMap modes add variety, though multiplayer suffers from dwindling player bases and some achievement-related frustrations. Overall, DOOM is lauded as a thrilling, brutal shooter that set a high standard for the genre and remains a must-play for FPS fans seeking an exhilarating experience.
Highlights
Players overwhelmingly praise DOOM's exhilarating and fluid combat mechanics, emphasizing fast-paced, aggressive gameplay that rewards skillful movement and weapon mastery. The game's visuals, featuring detailed and atmospheric Martian and hellish settings, continue to impress despite its age. Mick Gordon's soundtrack is frequently highlighted as a standout element, enhancing the adrenaline-fueled action with its heavy industrial metal tracks. The level design encourages exploration and tactical engagement, while the campaign delivers a satisfying, intense experience. Many reviewers commend the game's optimization and smooth performance, making it accessible and enjoyable across platforms.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the campaign's relatively short length and occasional lack of combat variety beyond a few boss fights. Some players find the story simplistic and not particularly engaging, serving more as background than a compelling narrative. Multiplayer modes face issues with low player populations and achievement-related grinds that can be frustrating, especially when tied to non-existent DLC or difficult matchmaking. A few users report minor bugs like getting stuck in debris, and some feel the Rune challenges are poorly balanced, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, the SnapMap mode is not universally appealing.
Pros
- • Exhilarating, fast-paced combat that rewards aggressive play and skillful movement.
- • Mick Gordon's industrial metal soundtrack perfectly matches the game's intensity.
- • Visually detailed and atmospheric environments on Mars and in Hell.
- • Smooth performance and solid optimization even years after release.
- • Engaging level design with verticality, secrets, and exploration.
- • Satisfying weapon variety with impactful upgrades and mods.
- • Addictive "Glory Kills" mechanic that restores health and ammo.
Cons
- • Campaign length is relatively short compared to other shooters.
- • Storyline is simplistic and not deeply engaging for many players.
- • Multiplayer mode suffers from low player base and matchmaking issues.
- • Some achievements require frustrating grinds or outdated multiplayer content.
- • Rune challenges are perceived as poorly balanced and unfair by some.
- • Minor bugs reported, such as getting stuck in debris or environments.
- • SnapMap mode lacks appeal for a portion of the player base.
Rating Criteria
Now includes all three premium DLC packs (Unto the Evil, Hell Followed, and Bloodfall), maps, modes, and weapons, as well as all feature updates including Arcade Mode, Photo Mode, and the latest Update 6.66, which brings further multiplayer improvements as well as revamps multiplayer progression.
