How To Play Doom Games: A Chronological Playthrough

Hugo van Dijk

6 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Doom (1993) - The Genesis of Hell

Gameplay Basics

Doom (1993) laid the foundation for the modern FPS. Mastering the basics is key to enjoying this classic. Movement is simple – WASD for movement, and the mouse for aiming. Weapon management is crucial; you'll need to learn the strengths and weaknesses of each weapon:

• Shotgun: Devastating at close range.
• Chaingun: Effective against larger groups of enemies.
• Rocket Launcher: Ideal for taking down tougher demons.
• Plasma Rifle: Powerful but slow-firing.

Resource gathering is also essential. Pick up ammo, health, and armor whenever possible. Learning to effectively use power-ups like Berserk (temporary invincibility) and Invisibility is key to survival. Explore the levels thoroughly; hidden areas often contain valuable resources and secrets.

Story and Setting

The plot is relatively straightforward: hellish forces invade Mars, and you, a lone space marine, are the only thing standing between humanity and annihilation. The game's influence on the FPS genre is undeniable, establishing many conventions that are still used today.

• The invasion of hell on Mars: A terrifying event that sets the stage for the entire franchise.
• The protagonist's mission: A simple yet effective narrative hook.
• Key characters and antagonists: Although largely implied rather than explicitly shown, the iconic imagery of demons sets a lasting impression.

Finding and Playing Doom (1993)

You can find Doom (1993) on platforms like GOG and Steam. These versions often include compatibility patches for modern operating systems. Numerous mods and enhanced versions also exist, offering updated graphics and gameplay improvements for those seeking a more modern experience.

Doom II: Hell on Earth (1994) – Expanding the Infernal War

Doom II: Hell on Earth expands upon the original's formula, sending the conflict to Earth itself.

New Features and Enemies

This sequel introduces a whole new arsenal of weapons and enemies, increasing the challenge significantly.

• New weapons: The Super Shotgun delivers devastating close-range power, while the Plasma Rifle provides long-range firepower.
• Challenging new demons and bosses: Prepare for tougher encounters and more varied enemy types.
• Larger and more complex level design: Expect more intricate levels to explore.

Continuing the Story

The story continues directly from the first game, with Hell's forces now wreaking havoc on Earth.

• The continuation of the fight against Hell: The war spills over from Mars, presenting a larger, more global threat.
• The expansion of the conflict to Earth: The setting changes but the intensity remains.

Playing Doom II

Like the original, Doom II is available on various platforms, including GOG and Steam, often with compatibility updates and a wealth of community-created mods and enhanced versions.

Doom 3 (2004) – A Darker, More Atmospheric Experience

Doom 3 represents a significant departure, shifting the focus towards a more atmospheric, horror-focused experience.

Shift in Gameplay and Atmosphere

This installment trades the fast-paced action of its predecessors for a more survival-horror approach, with an emphasis on suspense and a darker, more claustrophobic atmosphere.

• More emphasis on survival horror elements: Expect a greater emphasis on resource management and strategic combat.
• Improved graphics and sound effects: Doom 3 boasts enhanced visuals and a chilling soundscape that elevates the sense of dread.
• New weapons and enemy types: The arsenal and enemy roster have been updated to fit the new setting and atmosphere.
• Puzzles and environmental storytelling: The narrative is conveyed more through environmental details and puzzle-solving.

The Story of Doom 3

The setting shifts to a research facility on Mars, where a demonic invasion unveils a darker origin story.

• The scientific research facility on Mars: A new setting that adds to the atmosphere of unease.
• The demonic invasion and its origins: The story delves deeper into the origins of the demonic forces.

Playing Doom 3

Doom 3 is readily available on various platforms, including Steam, with potential for mods and enhanced versions.

Doom (2016) – A Return to Glory

Doom (2016) marked a triumphant return to the series' roots, revitalizing the fast-paced, brutal action that defined the originals.

Modernized Gameplay

This reboot retains the core elements of the classic Doom experience, enhancing them with modern game mechanics.

• Improved movement and combat: Fluid movement and visceral combat are central to the experience.
• Weapon customization and upgrades: Players can customize their weapons to their preferred playstyle.
• Gore and brutal combat: The game embraces its violent nature with intense and satisfying combat.

Reimagining the Story

While maintaining the core concept, Doom (2016) offers a reimagined story that retains its connection to previous games.

• The updated lore and backstory: The game recontextualizes the story within a new narrative framework.
• The main character and his motivations: The silent protagonist is a force of nature, driven by pure survival and a thirst for demon-slaying.

Playing Doom (2016)

This title is widely available on various gaming platforms, including PC and consoles, offering numerous modding options to personalize the experience.

Doom Eternal (2020) – The Ultimate Demon Slayer

Doom Eternal, the sequel to the 2016 reboot, elevates the gameplay to new heights.

Gameplay Enhancements

This installment refines the gameplay mechanics and adds new layers of depth and challenge.

• Advanced movement options: Double jumping and dashing enable fast-paced traversal.
• More intricate combat encounters: The combat becomes even more strategic and skill-based.
• Resource management and upgrades: Effective resource management and weapon upgrades are crucial for survival.

Continuing the Story of Doom (2016)

Doom Eternal continues the narrative established in its predecessor, culminating in an epic confrontation.

• The escalation of the war against Hell: The demonic threat grows, resulting in a massive war across multiple locations.
• The introduction of new enemies and allies: Players face new and challenging demons, while encountering new allies in the fight.
• The final confrontation with the ultimate evil: The game’s climax provides a spectacular and conclusive showdown.

Playing Doom Eternal

Doom Eternal is available on major gaming platforms and offers a rich modding community, adding even more ways to personalize your experience.

Conclusion

Playing the Doom games chronologically allows you to fully appreciate the evolution of the franchise, from its groundbreaking origins to its modern, adrenaline-pumping iterations. Starting with the original Doom provides essential context for the later games, making the journey through Hell that much more rewarding. Embark on your own Doom playthrough today and experience the legendary franchise in its intended order! Share your experiences and favorite Doom moments in the comments below.