35 Facts About Doom (Video Game)

The Birth of Doom

"Doom" revolutionized the gaming industry when it was released in 1993. Developed by id Software, this first-person shooter set the stage for countless games to follow.

1. "Doom" was created by John Carmack and John Romero, two of the most influential figures in gaming history.
2. The game was initially distributed as shareware, allowing players to try the first episode for free.
3. "Doom" was one of the first games to support multiplayer gameplay, introducing "deathmatch" mode.
4. It was developed using the Doom engine, a groundbreaking piece of technology at the time.
5. The game was inspired by movies like "Aliens" and "Evil Dead II."

Gameplay and Mechanics

"Doom" introduced several innovative gameplay mechanics that became staples in the FPS genre.

6. Players navigate through levels, fighting demons and solving puzzles to progress.
7. The game features a variety of weapons, including the iconic BFG 9000.
8. "Doom" uses a pseudo-3D graphics engine, which was revolutionary for its time.
9. The game’s levels are designed with a non-linear approach, allowing for exploration.
10. Health and armor pickups are scattered throughout levels, adding a strategic element.

Cultural Impact

"Doom" left a lasting mark on popular culture and the gaming community.

11. The game has been referenced in numerous movies, TV shows, and other video games.
12. "Doom" inspired a generation of game developers, leading to the creation of many other FPS games.
13. The game's soundtrack, composed by Bobby Prince, is iconic and has been covered by many artists.
14. "Doom" was one of the first games to have a dedicated modding community.
15. The term "Doom clone" was used to describe early FPS games that followed its formula.

Controversies and Challenges

Despite its success, "Doom" faced several controversies and challenges.

16. The game was criticized for its violent content, leading to debates about video game violence.
17. "Doom" was banned in some countries due to its graphic nature.
18. The game’s development was fraught with challenges, including tight deadlines and technical limitations.
19. "Doom" faced competition from other games but managed to stand out due to its innovative design.
20. The game's success led to several sequels and spin-offs, each building on the original's legacy.

Technical Achievements

"Doom" pushed the boundaries of what was possible in video games at the time.

21. The game’s engine allowed for dynamic lighting and texture mapping, which were cutting-edge features.
22. "Doom" was one of the first games to support networked multiplayer gameplay.
23. The game’s source code was released to the public in 1997, allowing for extensive modding and porting.
24. "Doom" was ported to numerous platforms, including consoles, handhelds, and even calculators.
25. The game’s level editor, DoomEd, allowed players to create their own levels, fostering a creative community.

Legacy and Influence

"Doom" continues to influence the gaming industry and remains a beloved classic.

26. The game was inducted into the World Video Game Hall of Fame in 2015.
27. "Doom" has been re-released on modern platforms, ensuring its legacy lives on.
28. The game’s influence can be seen in modern FPS titles like "Halo" and "Call of Duty."
29. "Doom" inspired the creation of speedrunning, where players compete to complete games as quickly as possible.
30. The game’s protagonist, the Doom Slayer, has become an iconic character in gaming.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Even hardcore fans might not know some of these interesting tidbits about "Doom."

31. The game’s original title was "Green and Pissed," but it was changed to "Doom" for a broader appeal.
32. "Doom" was developed in just 18 months, a remarkably short time for such a groundbreaking game.
33. The game’s enemies were inspired by creatures from Dungeons & Dragons.
34. "Doom" was one of the first games to feature a chainsaw as a weapon.
35. The game’s success led to the creation of the "Doom Bible," a design document outlining the series' lore and future plans.

The Legacy of Doom

Doom's impact on gaming can't be overstated. It revolutionized first-person shooters, setting a standard for future games. Its fast-paced action, innovative level design, and multiplayer mode captivated millions. Doom's modding community kept it alive, with fans creating new levels, weapons, and even total conversions. The game's influence extends beyond gaming, inspiring movies, books, and even music. Its legacy lives on through sequels and reboots, each bringing something new while honoring the original. Doom's success story is a testament to creativity and innovation in game development. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, Doom offers a thrilling experience that's hard to match. So, next time you pick up a controller or sit at your keyboard, remember the game that started it all. Doom isn't just a game; it's a piece of gaming history.