Where to Start · Doom
Where to Start with Doom
Doom is id Software's landmark FPS franchise running since 1993 — the series that invented the first-person shooter genre as we know it, sparked moral panic about video game violence, and then reinvented itself in 2016 with one of the most acclaimed FPS games ever made. The series spans 30 years and two distinct eras: the classic DOS era (Doom, Doom II, Final Doom) and the modern era (Doom 2016, Doom Eternal). Both are excellent in completely different ways.
The classic games defined PC gaming in the 1990s. The modern games are arguably the best FPS games of their decade.
If you only play one Doom game
Play Doom (2016). It is the best entry point for modern audiences and one of the best FPS games ever made — fast, aggressive, and mechanically brilliant. The glory kill system rewards moving forward rather than taking cover. The level design rewards exploration. The soundtrack by Mick Gordon is the most effective gaming soundtrack of the decade. Doom (2016) requires no prior knowledge of the series and is available on PS4/Xbox/Switch/PC.
Doom Eternal — the peak
Doom Eternal (2020) is the mechanical apex of the franchise — a resource management combat puzzle disguised as a shooter. Every enemy type has a specific weakness, every weapon has a specific role, and mastering the loop of chainsaw for ammo, flame belch for armor, glory kills for health while circle-strafing Marauders is one of the most satisfying gameplay systems ever designed. It is significantly harder than Doom 2016 and demands more from the player. Play 2016 first. Eternal's story continues directly from it.
The classic era
The original Doom (1993) is available on modern platforms via the Unity port and is playable today — the level design holds up, the shotgun feels perfect, and the atmosphere of Hell on Mars is still effective. Doom II: Hell on Earth (1994) added the Super Shotgun and is the more complete classic game. Both are on PS4/Xbox/Switch/PC via the Doom Classic Complete bundle. For the definitive classic Doom experience, Doom + Doom II (2023) on modern platforms includes both games with new add-ons and quality of life improvements.
Doom 64
Doom 64 (1997) was a Nintendo 64 exclusive for decades and is now available on all platforms. It is darker and more atmospheric than the DOS originals with a unique visual style and original level design. Doom 64 is the bridge between the classic and modern eras and worth playing after the original games.
What platforms you need
Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal — PS4/PS5/Xbox/Switch/PC. Doom + Doom II (classic collection) — PS4/Xbox/Switch/PC. Doom 64 — PS4/Xbox/Switch/PC.
Recommended order
Doom 2016 → Doom Eternal → Doom + Doom II (classic era context) → Doom 64. The Ancient Gods DLC for Eternal is worth playing after the base game — it is two substantial expansions that conclude the story.