Released in March 2020, DOOM Eternal is the sequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016), and it has solidified itself as one of the best first-person shooters of the modern era. Developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks, DOOM Eternal took everything that fans loved about the 2016 reboot and expanded on it in every way possible, offering a fast-paced, brutal, and highly polished experience that captures the spirit of the original 1993 DOOM while pushing the boundaries of modern game design.

A Story of Hell on Earth

The plot of DOOM Eternal follows the iconic Doom Slayer (or Doomguy), who returns to Earth to stop a demonic invasion that threatens humanity. The once hopeful resistance is in tatters, and the Doom Slayer must fight through hordes of demons to save what’s left of civilization. The narrative delves deeper into the lore of the DOOM universe, giving more context to the Doom Slayer’s origins, the power of the Hell Priests, and the conflict between Heaven and Hell.

While the storyline is engaging, it is often overshadowed by the sheer thrill of the gameplay itself. Fans of the series have long known that DOOM is less about plot and more about ripping through enemies with visceral intensity. However, DOOM Eternal strikes a balance by weaving in a surprisingly rich and expansive narrative that players can choose to explore through lore and environmental storytelling.

Fast-Paced, Strategic Combat

The core of DOOM Eternal lies in its relentless combat, which builds upon the “push-forward” mechanics introduced in DOOM (2016). In DOOM Eternal, every battle is a dynamic puzzle, forcing players to constantly move, manage resources, and make split-second decisions. The Doom Slayer has a range of tools at his disposal, from shotguns and rocket launchers to chainsaws and flamethrowers, each designed for specific tactical purposes.

Ammo, health, and armor are no longer just pickups scattered around the map; they are gained through specific actions in combat. Performing a “Glory Kill” on a staggered enemy restores health, using the chainsaw on enemies provides ammo, and setting enemies on fire with the flamethrower drops armor. This system forces players to engage with every aspect of the game, discouraging passive playstyles. Running out of resources? Find a weak enemy and take them down brutally to stay in the fight.

The introduction of new mobility mechanics, such as dashing and wall-climbing, keeps the action fluid and exhilarating. The arenas are designed to take full advantage of these mechanics, giving players the freedom to move vertically and horizontally across levels while dodging enemy attacks and lining up their own.

Visual and Audio Excellence

DOOM Eternal is a visual masterpiece, with detailed environments that range from the ruined, demon-infested cities of Earth to the hellish landscapes and otherworldly realms. The level design is intricate and expansive, encouraging exploration while never losing sight of the relentless pace of combat. The game’s use of vibrant colors, sharp textures, and stunning visual effects makes every battle feel larger than life.

The soundtrack, composed by Mick Gordon, is a standout feature of the game. It perfectly complements the intensity of combat with its pounding industrial metal tracks that adapt dynamically to the player’s actions. The music becomes a part of the gameplay experience, fueling the adrenaline-pumping moments of battle and adding to the visceral thrill.

Multiplayer and Post-Launch Support

In addition to the single-player campaign, DOOM Eternal introduced “Battlemode,” a unique 2v1 multiplayer mode that pits two player-controlled demons against one fully-equipped Doom Slayer. While it received mixed feedback, the mode offers a different take on traditional multiplayer by focusing on strategy and teamwork.

Post-launch, id Software has supported the game with expansions, such as The Ancient Gods, which added more story content and new challenges for veteran players. The expansions push the difficulty even further, offering punishing encounters for those seeking an even greater challenge.

Conclusion

DOOM Eternal is a near-perfect blend of old-school shooter mechanics and modern game design. Its emphasis on speed, strategy, and brutal combat makes it a standout title in the FPS genre. With its stunning visuals, incredible soundtrack, and finely-tuned gameplay loop, DOOM Eternal is not just a worthy successor to the DOOM legacy—it’s a defining experience for action gamers of this generation.