The Eternal Debate: Is Doom Eternal Better Than Doom?

The Doom franchise has been a staple of the first-person shooter genre for decades, with id Software’s 2016 reboot of the series, simply titled Doom, receiving widespread critical acclaim. However, with the release of Doom Eternal in 2020, fans and critics alike are left wondering: is the sequel better than the original? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of both games, exploring their gameplay, graphics, soundtracks, and overall impact to determine which one reigns supreme.

Gameplay Comparison

When it comes to gameplay, both Doom and Doom Eternal share a common DNA. Both games are fast-paced, action-packed, and extremely violent, with a focus on ripping and tearing demons to shreds. However, Doom Eternal takes the formula to the next level, introducing new mechanics, enemies, and levels that elevate the experience.

In terms of movement, Doom Eternal adds a few tricks to the Doom Slayer’s arsenal, including a grappling hook, a dash ability, and a flamethrower. These new tools allow for more fluid and aggressive play, enabling players to traverse levels with ease and take down demons in creative ways. In contrast, Doom’s movement is more straightforward, relying on the classic strafing and jumping mechanics.

Another significant difference lies in the way both games approach combat. Doom’s combat is more methodical and deliberate, with an emphasis on using the right weapon for the right situation. Doom Eternal, on the other hand, is more frenetic, with a greater focus on using the environment to your advantage. The new game’s levels are designed to encourage a more aggressive playstyle, with ammo and health pickups scattered throughout to keep the action flowing.

Enemy Variety and AI

One area where Doom Eternal shines is in its enemy variety and AI. The new game introduces a host of new demons, each with unique behaviors and attack patterns. This forces players to adapt and improvise, as the same tactics won’t work on every enemy. In contrast, Doom’s enemy roster, while iconic, is somewhat limited, with fewer enemy types and less complex behaviors.

Doom Eternal’s AI is also more aggressive and adaptive, with demons that will flank, chase, and corner you if you’re not careful. This makes for a more intense and challenging experience, as you’ll need to stay on your toes to survive.

Glory Kills and Takedowns

Another key difference between the two games lies in their “glory kill” systems. In Doom, glory kills are a way to execute demons in a gruesome and satisfying manner, often providing a temporary adrenaline boost. Doom Eternal expands on this concept, introducing a more complex takedown system that rewards players for creative and brutal kills. This adds a new layer of depth to the combat, as players must carefully consider their approach to take down tougher enemies.

Graphics and Soundtrack Comparison

When it comes to graphics and sound design, both Doom and Doom Eternal are visually stunning, with id Software’s id Tech 6 engine delivering some of the most detailed and realistic environments and demons in the series.

Doom Eternal’s visuals are slightly more refined, with improved lighting, texture work, and character models. The new game’s art style is also more vibrant and colorful, with a greater emphasis on bold, contrasting hues. However, Doom’s visuals still hold up remarkably well, with a gritty, industrial aesthetic that’s unmistakably Doom.

As for the soundtracks, both games feature pulse-pounding scores that perfectly capture the intense, aggressive atmosphere of the Doom franchise. Mick Gordon’s work on both games is phenomenal, with crushing guitar riffs and pounding drums that perfectly complement the on-screen action. Doom Eternal’s soundtrack is perhaps more experimental and varied, incorporating more electronic and atmospheric elements to create a sense of unease and tension.

Sound Design and Voice Acting

In terms of sound design, both games are equally impressive, with detailed, visceral sound effects that make every shotgun blast and chainsaw rev feel satisfyingly brutal. However, Doom Eternal’s sound design takes it to the next level, with more detailed and realistic sound effects for the new demons and weapons.

Voice acting is another area where Doom Eternal excels, with a more prominent narrative focus and some exceptional voice work from the cast, particularly the returning Doug Cockle as the Doom Slayer.

Impact and Legacy

Both Doom and Doom Eternal have had a significant impact on the gaming industry, influencing countless other shooters and inspiring a new generation of developers.

Doom’s influence can be seen in games like Wolfenstein: The New Colossus and Rage 2, which borrowed heavily from its fast-paced, action-packed formula. Doom Eternal, on the other hand, has already inspired a new wave of FPS games that prioritize aggressive play and creative combat.

In terms of legacy, both games are already considered classics of the genre, with Doom Eternal solidifying its place as one of the best shooters of all time.

Awards and Accolades

The critical acclaim for both games is undeniable, with Doom winning numerous awards, including Game of the Year at the 2016 Golden Joystick Awards and Best Shooter at The Game Awards 2016. Doom Eternal has also received widespread critical acclaim, winning Game of the Year at the 2020 Golden Joystick Awards and Best Action Game at The Game Awards 2020.

Conclusion

So, is Doom Eternal better than Doom? The answer is a resounding yes. While Doom is still an exceptional game, Doom Eternal takes the formula to new heights, introducing new mechanics, enemies, and levels that elevate the experience in every way. The new game’s graphics, soundtrack, and sound design are also more refined and polished, making for a more immersive and engaging experience.

That being said, Doom is still a fantastic game that holds up remarkably well today. If you haven’t played it, it’s still worth checking out, especially if you’re a fan of the franchise or the genre.

Ultimately, the choice between Doom and Doom Eternal comes down to personal preference. If you want a more methodical, deliberate experience, Doom might be the better choice. If you want a faster-paced, more aggressive game with a greater focus on creative combat, Doom Eternal is the way to go.

Either way, you can’t go wrong with either game, as both are must-plays for fans of the FPS genre.

What are the main differences between Doom and Doom Eternal?

The main differences between Doom and Doom Eternal lie in their game mechanics, level design, and overall tone. Doom Eternal builds upon the foundation laid by Doom, introducing new features such as dash abilities, a grappling hook, and a greater emphasis on exploration. The game also has a more narrative-driven approach, with a greater focus on storytelling and character development.

In contrast, Doom is a more fast-paced, action-oriented game that focuses on intense combat and quick reflexes. The game’s levels are more linear, and the player is encouraged to move quickly through the environment, taking down demons and collecting power-ups along the way. While both games share a similar core concept, they have distinct identities that set them apart from one another.

Is Doom Eternal a direct sequel to Doom?

Yes, Doom Eternal is a direct sequel to Doom. The game takes place after the events of the 2016 title, and it continues the story of the Doom Slayer as he battles against the forces of Hell. The game’s narrative is heavily influenced by the events of the previous game, and it provides a sense of continuity and closure for players who finished the original.

That being said, Doom Eternal is designed to be accessible to new players as well. The game includes a brief recap of the previous game’s story, and it does an excellent job of introducing new characters and plot points that don’t require prior knowledge of the series. As such, players can jump into Doom Eternal without feeling lost or confused, even if they haven’t played the original.

Does Doom Eternal have better graphics than Doom?

Yes, Doom Eternal has significantly better graphics than Doom. The game features improved textures, lighting, and animations, which create a more visually stunning experience. The game’s environments are also more detailed and varied, with a greater emphasis on verticality and exploration.

That being said, the graphical differences between the two games are not necessarily drastic. Both games have a similar art style and aesthetic, and they share a common identity. The improvements in Doom Eternal’s graphics are more subtle, but they add up to create a more immersive and engaging experience.

Is Doom Eternal more challenging than Doom?

Doom Eternal is generally considered to be more challenging than Doom, particularly on higher difficulty levels. The game introduces new enemy types and mechanics that require players to adapt their strategies and tactics. The game’s platforming sections are also more demanding, with a greater emphasis on precision and timing.

That being said, Doom Eternal is still an accessible game that can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. The game includes a variety of difficulty options, including an “Extra Life” mode that makes the game easier for new players. As such, players can tailor their experience to their individual skills and preferences.

Does Doom Eternal have a better soundtrack than Doom?

The soundtrack of Doom Eternal is highly praised by fans and critics alike, and it’s generally considered to be on par with the soundtrack of Doom. The game’s score is heavy, aggressive, and pulse-pounding, with a greater emphasis on electronic and industrial elements.

That being said, the soundtrack of Doom Eternal is more varied and experimental than the soundtrack of Doom. The game features a wider range of musical styles and genres, from heavy metal to electronic dance music. As such, the soundtrack of Doom Eternal is more eclectic and diverse, but it still captures the same sense of energy and intensity as the original.

Can I play Doom Eternal without playing Doom?

Yes, you can play Doom Eternal without playing Doom. While the game is a direct sequel to the 2016 title, it’s designed to be accessible to new players. The game includes a brief recap of the previous game’s story, and it introduces new characters and plot points that don’t require prior knowledge of the series.

That being said, playing Doom before Doom Eternal will provide a deeper understanding of the game’s story and characters. The game’s narrative is heavily influenced by the events of the previous game, and it provides a sense of continuity and closure for players who finished the original. As such, playing Doom before Doom Eternal will enhance the overall experience, but it’s not necessary to enjoy the game.

Is Doom Eternal worth playing if I’ve already played Doom?

Yes, Doom Eternal is worth playing even if you’ve already played Doom. The game offers a fresh and exciting experience that builds upon the foundation laid by the original. The game’s new mechanics, enemies, and levels provide a sense of novelty and surprise, even for players who have already mastered the previous game.

That being said, the value of Doom Eternal ultimately depends on your individual preferences and tastes. If you’re looking for a similar experience to Doom, you may find that Doom Eternal is too similar or too iterative. However, if you’re looking for a new and exciting take on the Doom formula, Doom Eternal is an excellent choice.