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DOOM: The Technology and Design Behind One of Gaming’s Most Iconic Franchises
When it comes to the most influential and revolutionary games ever created, DOOM is a name that comes to mind. After a pause of several years, a new entry to the franchise finally came in 2016, which saw Doomguy, now referred to as the Doom Slayer, make a fantastic return to gaming. DOOM games have continuously pushed devices to their limit and are almost always very well optimized.
The concept behind DOOM is straightforward for most players, as ‘’Rip and Tear’’ are the only three words they need to worry about while facing off hordes of deadly demons. But the thought behind the game, the technology, and the design itself is much more complex. So, we’re here to shed some light on DOOM and uncover just how the franchise has always pushed the limits of tech.
The Technology Behind DOOM
Regardless of whichever entry in the franchise, you’re talking about, one thing must be said: DOOM games have always run exceptionally well on the devices for which they are released. The original DOOM 1 and 2 were brilliant games for their time, both graphically and action-wise. The levels were detailed, each demon had a unique design, Doomguy had his detailed facial animations, and much more, which most would consider impossible with the gaming technology of that time.
Then there are DOOM 2016 and DOOM Eternal, which run great at 60 FPS even on consoles like the base PS4 and Xbox One, which are usually locked at 30 FPS. This is all possible to the excellent design of the id Tech engine. This engine has had several new versions over the years, with id Tech 1 being used for the first DOOM and id Tech 7, the latest of all so far, being used for DOOM Eternal and its additional content. These engines have always been relatively advanced compared to a majority of the other gaming engines widely used, and id Tech 7 continues this trend which is evident in DOOM Eternal’s brilliant features, visuals, and level designs.
The Design of DOOM Games
What truly makes DOOM games feel like DOOM games is the design. Every single level or arena is wide and spacious, yet at the same time, it is made to feel tight and claustrophobic. Players are given lots of space to move around, but at the same time, they must make room to move for themselves by carefully taking out demons in bloody, gore-filled battles.
These great-level designs are one of DOOM’s and id Software’s specialties. Even when asked about the development of the games in the franchise, the developers have always stated that their goal is to create brilliant level designs that can help them surpass expectations rather than meet them.
The games are meant to feel fast, challenging, and intense because that is precisely what DOOM is. This design and focus on level environments and their structure is another crucial part of DOOM that often goes unappreciated. The developers at id Software have done an excellent job designing games in the series, which is one of many reasons why it’s so popular in the first place. What are your thoughts on DOOM? Do you agree that DOOM is an iconic franchise in Gaming?
