Doom (PS4)

Status:

• Complete in Box
• Play Tested

DOOM (PS4) Review

Genre: First-Person Shooter
Developer: id Software
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Release Date: May 13, 2016

Overview:
DOOM (2016) is a reimagining of the classic first-person shooter series, bringing the fast-paced, action-packed combat to modern consoles. Developed by id Software, the game focuses on brutal, high-octane combat against hordes of demons in a hellish version of Mars. With a return to the roots of DOOM, the game blends the fast movement and aggressive combat of the original games with modern graphical fidelity, tight controls, and a focus on staying in constant motion during battles. It is a visceral and relentless shooter designed to keep players on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Pros

1. Fast-Paced, Fluid Combat:

   • One of the standout features of DOOM is its combat. The game emphasizes speed and aggression, encouraging players to keep moving rather than hiding behind cover. The combat is a dance of dodging, jumping, and blasting enemies at a rapid pace.
   • The weapon arsenal is varied and satisfying, from the classic shotgun to the heavy-duty BFG (Big F****** Gun). Each weapon feels powerful, with a satisfying weight and kick, making each encounter feel rewarding.
   • The "Glory Kills" mechanic, where you finish off weakened enemies with a brutal, close-range execution, adds another layer of intensity and satisfaction to every kill.

2. Impressive Visuals and Design:

   • DOOMs visuals are stunning, with highly detailed environments, gruesome demon designs, and explosive effects that bring the hellish world to life. The game is well-optimized for the PS4, offering smooth performance even in the most chaotic firefights.
   • The levels are intricately designed, with a mix of large, open spaces for intense battles and narrow corridors that add a sense of claustrophobia. The environments are visually diverse, from the industrial Mars bases to the fiery depths of Hell.
   • The lighting and visual effects, particularly the fiery explosions and demonic spells, are top-notch, giving the game a visually compelling atmosphere.

3. Thrilling Multiplayer Modes:

   • In addition to the stellar single-player campaign, DOOM features a solid multiplayer mode that offers traditional FPS gameplay with a twist. The multiplayer mode allows players to battle against each other in various modes with the ability to play as powerful demons.
   • The multiplayer maps are well-designed, with an emphasis on speed and action. The gameplay encourages fast movement and brutal combat, similar to the single-player experience.
   • The inclusion of classic DOOM elements like power-ups (e.g., quad damage) and demon transformations makes the multiplayer mode feel like a nostalgic yet fresh experience.

4. Return to Classic DOOM Gameplay:

   • DOOM (2016) brings back the core mechanics that made the original games so iconic: fast movement, constant action, and minimal downtime. Theres no hiding behind cover or reloading weapons here; the focus is on staying mobile, taking out enemies, and keeping the action intense.
   • The game is a throwback to the simpler times of gaming, where combat was the star of the show, and the levels are designed to keep you engaged and challenged. The design choice to eliminate a cover system, as well as focusing on quick, brutal action, makes DOOM feel like a true spiritual successor to the classic series.

5. Great Soundtrack:

   • The heavy metal soundtrack by Mick Gordon is a perfect fit for the chaotic, blood-pumping gameplay. The music is fast, intense, and adds an additional layer of energy to the combat. It complements the violence and action, making every battle feel even more intense.
   • The sound design is excellent, with the roars of demons, the sounds of weapon fire, and the ambient noise of the environments all blending together to create an immersive experience.

Cons

1. Lack of Story Depth:

   • While the games story serves as a backdrop to the action, it is relatively thin and doesnt add much to the experience. The narrative is simplistic, focusing on the protagonist's mission to stop the demon invasion without delving deep into character development or lore.
   • For those looking for a deeper, more nuanced story, DOOM may feel lacking, as the game prioritizes fast-paced gameplay over narrative complexity.

2. Repetitive Gameplay:

   • The core gameplay loopkilling demons, collecting health and ammo, and advancing through levelscan start to feel repetitive after a while. While the action is intense and satisfying, the gameplay doesnt evolve much beyond the basics throughout the campaign.
   • Some players might find the lack of significant variety in level design or enemy types to be a downside, especially as the game progresses.

3. Occasional Frustrating Platforming:

   • While the game is largely about combat, there are occasional platforming sections where you need to jump across gaps or climb walls. These can feel out of place and occasionally frustrating, as the platforming mechanics are not as refined as the rest of the game.
   • The camera can also feel unwieldy during these sections, making precise jumps more difficult than they need to be.

Verdict

DOOM (2016) is a fast, brutal, and visually stunning first-person shooter that brings the franchise back to its roots. The game focuses on intense, non-stop action, with tight controls, a satisfying weapon selection, and a focus on fluid combat that keeps players on their toes. The single-player campaign is exciting and full of action, though the lack of a deep story and occasional repetitive gameplay may detract from the experience for some. The multiplayer mode is fun and engaging, offering a classic DOOM experience in a competitive setting.

For fans of old-school shooters and high-energy gameplay, DOOM is a must-play. It is a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern design, delivering a thrilling experience from start to finish.

Score:

• FPS Fans: 9/10
• Action Gamers: 8.5/10
• Story-Driven Players: 7/10

DOOM delivers an exhilarating and relentless shooter experience, making it one of the standout titles in the genre for the PS4. Its a celebration of pure, unadulterated action, even if it sacrifices some depth in its story.