Playing Doom Games In Order: A Comprehensive Walkthrough

Mei Lin

5 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Embark on a nostalgic journey through the hellish landscapes of the Doom franchise! This comprehensive guide will walk you through playing the Doom games in chronological order, ensuring you experience the evolution of this iconic first-person shooter (FPS) series from its groundbreaking origins to its modern iterations. We'll cover release dates, key features, and what makes each game a must-play in this legendary series. Whether you're a seasoned Doom slayer or a newcomer ready to rip and tear, this walkthrough will help you navigate the demonic hordes effectively.

<h2>The Classic Doom Trilogy (1993-1995): A Foundation of Fear</h2>

The original Doom trilogy laid the foundation for the entire franchise, defining the FPS genre and introducing players to the visceral thrill of blasting demons in a hellish landscape. Playing these games in order provides a unique perspective on the evolution of both gameplay mechanics and the overall narrative.

<h3>Doom (1993): The Birth of a Legend</h3>

Released in 1993, the original Doom revolutionized the gaming world with its groundbreaking graphics and fast-paced gameplay. For its time, the graphics were stunning, and the sheer speed and brutality of the combat were unlike anything seen before. Players wielded iconic weapons like the chainsaw, shotgun, and the devastating BFG 9000, each crucial for surviving the onslaught of demonic enemies. The game's levels, ranging from claustrophobic corridors to sprawling outdoor areas, offered a variety of challenges and secrets.

• Key Features: Innovative FPS mechanics, groundbreaking graphics (for 1993), addictive gameplay loop.
• Notable Enemies: Imps, Cacodemons, Hell Knights, Baron of Hell, and the terrifying Cyberdemon.
• Secret Levels: Hidden areas rewarding exploration and offering powerful weapons and resources.
• Influence: Doom's influence on the FPS genre is undeniable, shaping countless games that followed.

<h3>Doom II: Hell on Earth (1994): Expanding the Inferno</h3>

Doom II: Hell on Earth, released a year later, expanded upon the original's formula, adding new weapons, monsters, and levels. The improved graphics and gameplay mechanics made for an even more intense experience. The introduction of multiplayer significantly increased the game's replayability, paving the way for the competitive FPS scene we know today.

• New Weapons: The devastating Super Shotgun and the powerful Plasma Gun added tactical depth to combat.
• Iconic Enemies: The terrifying Arch-Vile and the menacing Spider Mastermind posed significant new challenges.
• Expanded Level Design: Larger, more complex levels increased exploration and strategic possibilities.
• Game Modes: Doom II offered various game modes, including cooperative and deathmatch, enhancing its replayability.

<h3>Doom 64 (1997): A Darker Descent into Hell</h3>

While not initially part of the main storyline, Doom 64 (1997), a Nintendo 64 exclusive, is a significant entry in the classic trilogy. Offering enhanced graphics and improved gameplay compared to its predecessors, Doom 64 featured entirely new levels, enemies, and weapons not seen in the original two games. The enhanced atmosphere and sound design created a more immersive and terrifying experience.

• Exclusive Levels and Monsters: Encounter entirely new challenges designed specifically for the N64.
• Updated Visuals: Improved graphics and darker, more atmospheric environments.
• Improved Sound Effects: Enhanced audio design heightened the sense of dread and immersion.

<h2>Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal: A Modern Resurrection</h2>

id Software's reboot of the Doom franchise revitalized the series, bringing the fast-paced, visceral gameplay of the originals into the modern era with stunning visuals and refined mechanics.

<h3>Doom (2016): A Brutal Return to Form</h3>

Doom (2016) marked a triumphant return to the classic Doom gameplay, modernized with breathtaking graphics and a refined combat system. The fast-paced action, powerful weapons, and the gruesome glory kills combined for an unforgettable experience.

• Glory Kills: Brutal melee executions rewarding aggressive play and providing health and ammo.
• Weapon Upgrades: Customize weapons to suit your playstyle, maximizing their effectiveness.
• Improved Mobility: Increased speed and agility allowed for more dynamic combat encounters.
• Compelling Narrative: A more focused and impactful narrative adds depth to the experience.

<h3>Doom Eternal (2020): The Ultimate Slayer Experience</h3>

Doom Eternal (2020) builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, pushing the boundaries of fast-paced combat with verticality and increased player mobility. New weapons, enemies, and abilities broadened the gameplay options, and the expanded lore and deeper narrative created a compelling experience.

• New Weapons: The devastating Chainsaw upgrades and the versatile Flame Belch added tactical flexibility.
• Improved Traversal: Greater mobility options allowed for more dynamic movement and exploration.
• Platforming Challenges: Increased verticality introduced challenging platforming elements.
• Demon Abilities: The ability to use enemy abilities enhances gameplay versatility.

<h2>Other Doom Games and Spin-offs: Expanding the Universe</h2>

Beyond the core titles, several other games expand the Doom universe. Doom 3 and its BFG Edition offer a different, more survival-horror-focused take on the franchise, while Doom RPG presents a unique role-playing experience. While not always directly following the main storyline, these games offer alternative perspectives within the Doom universe. You can find these games through various online retailers and platforms.

<h2>Conclusion</h2>

This comprehensive walkthrough provides a clear path to experience the Doom games in order, allowing you to fully appreciate the evolution of this iconic franchise. From the groundbreaking original to the fast-paced modern entries, each game offers a unique and terrifying experience. Whether you're a long-time fan or a new recruit ready to tear through hell, playing the Doom games in order will grant you a deeper understanding and appreciation for one of gaming's most influential series. So, grab your shotgun, chainsaw, and prepare yourself for a hellish adventure – start playing the Doom games in order today!