DOOM (1993) Review: Score and Verdict
DOOM, released in 1993, helped define the first-person shooter. Its fast movement, demon enemies and dense levels created a formula that is still copied today. Its shareware release and modding community made it a cultural landmark.
What works
- Movement and combat are fast, with weapons that have a satisfying impact.
- Levels are layered with secrets and branching routes.
- The soundtrack and enemy design remain iconic.
What does not
- Its simple level design and limited story will feel dated to newer players.
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Gameplay and shooting | 9.5/10 |
| Visuals and sound | 8/10 |
| Content and modes | 8.5/10 |
| Multiplayer and community | 9/10 |
| Value for money | 9.5/10 |
Our scores are editorial ratings out of 10, based on each game's design and reported features. They are not a record of hands-on play sessions on this site.
Who should play it
Anyone interested in the origins of the genre or who enjoys fast, old-school shooting.
Verdict
A foundational shooter that still feels fast and fun. Our score: 9.5 out of 10.
Tips for playing the original
Keep moving, because standing still lets enemies surround you. Learn which enemies to take down first, such as those with ranged attacks. Explore levels thoroughly for secret areas, which often hide weapons and health pickups that change the difficulty of later rooms. Many players use the map to plan routes and find keys.
The shareware and mods
The shareware release introduced the game to millions of players, and the community that followed created countless levels, mods and tools. Many of today's level editors and modding ideas trace back to that early scene.
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- Counter-Strike 2 Review: Score, Pros and Cons (2026): Counter-Strike 2 review with our score out of 10: gunplay, maps, competitive play, the economy and who should play it.
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