Doom

• Release Date: 1994
• Genre: Shooter
• Style: First-Person Shooter
• Similar Games: Wolfenstein 3D (Atari Jaguar), Star Wars: Dark Forces (Macintosh), Quake (Macintosh), Star Wars: Dark Forces (IBM PC Compatible), Quake (IBM PC Compatible), Quake (Sega Saturn), Star Wars: Dark Forces (PlayStation), Quake II (IBM PC Compatible), Wolfenstein 3D (3DO), Quake (Nintendo 64), Wolfenstein 3D [DOS] (IBM PC Compatible), Doom II (IBM PC Compatible), Wolfenstein 3D (Super Nintendo Entertainment System), Quake II (Nintendo 64), Quake II (PlayStation)

Game Description

A lone space marine must battle an onslaught of demonic creatures in this 32X version of the computer classic, Doom. Use your fists or equip one of six weapons, from a pistol and shotgun to a chainsaw and rocket launcher, to battle groups of imps, zombies, and other hell spawn. Ride elevators, throw switches, and collect keycards to advance through 17 levels, adapted from the computer game's first two episodes. Unlike the 1993 original, Doom for 32X lacks a save feature and multiplayer functionality. The BFG weapon is also not found within the main game, but it is accessible after entering in a cheat code.

Roots & Influences

Originating on the computer, Doom (with a little help from Wolfenstein 3-D) brought first-person shooters into the mainstream. This 32X version is not a complete port but features many of its levels and all but one of its weapons.

Review: Overall

When Doom was released for computers, it revolutionized the first-person shooter. Sure, games such as Wolfenstein 3-D preceded it, but it was Doom that made this platform of gaming what it would eventually become. As a result of Doom's success on the computer screen, it was inevitable for it to make its appearance on several home console systems. For better or for worse, the 32X was one of these systems.

For the most part, everything that made Doom the sensation that it was with computers is here as well. The concept of making your way through a maze-like facility as you blow away monsters (guts and all) is here in full force. However, this is not a complete adaptation by any means.

For one thing, the game is significantly short on levels. With less than 20 total, the Doom PC purist could be disappointed. On the other hand, a person looking for a quick way to release some aggression may just want to fight his way through these levels, which could take an hour or less if he knows what he's doing.

The worst omission in this game, though, is not the lack of levels. Rather, everyone's favorite gun -- the BFG 9000 -- is nowhere to be found. Yes, it is in the instruction booklet. But good luck finding it in the game. You won't!

Despite its shortcomings, the 32X's version of Doom does have quite a bit going for it. For instance, all of the gore is there. And with it comes the satisfaction of releasing all anger on a bunch of really ugly monsters from another dimension. It's just flat-out fun, folks. Even if it is missing a few pieces.

Review: Enjoyment

Blasting away monsters is always fun! The more blood and guts, the better, right?

Review: Graphics

Almost as good as the computer version.

Review: Sound

Experience these great sounds with your headphones if you have a first-model Genesis. Amazing!

Review: Replay Value

Even after you've beaten it, you'll want to come back and fire away -- espcially after a bad day.

Review: Documentation

Good overall, but IT LIES! Where's the BFG 9000?

Production Credits

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