Which classic DOOM installment is best?

DooM, the franchise that changed first-person shooters, has shocked gamers when it was released. With a history that spans so big, fans ask "Which of the classic DooM games is best?" As a Doom mapper and player, I have been asked by my friend Zoha which classic DOOM installment is best, So I’ve researched all 4 of the entries, from creating maps in Doom I and Doom II to seeing the spooky scenes of Doom 64. Each game has its unique gameplay and skills needed, but I am convinced that The Ultimate Doom is the best of them all.

A Glimpse into Doom I

Gameplay of Doom 1's E1M3

Let’s begin with the very first game in this amazing series: Doom I. Released in 1993, it introduced players to fast-paced new gameplay. Interestingly, only one complete episode, the famous Knee-Deep in the Dead, was available in the shareware version. This episode showcased stunning new designs (unlike Wolfenstein 3D) for its time and amazing maps that immersed player.

As a mapper, I was in love with the simple layouts, filled with hidden secrets, which are easy to find compared to recent user-made maps. The straightforward yet addictive design of Doom I allowed me to get lost in exploration and simpliciaty.

The shareware model helped Doom I reach a big audience. In fact, it is estimated that over 12 million copies of the game were distributed. The impact it had on gaming cannot be compared, as it changed how players and creators engaged with video games.

Doom II: A Mixed Bag of Maps

Gameplay of Doom II's "The Citadel"

Doom II arrived in 1994, expanding the premise of its predecessor. This ambitious sequel retained the intense action while introducing new enemies, new weapon, and a total of 32 levels. However, as a mapper, I found parts of Doom II—especially the city landscapes—lacking quality.

Take "The Citadel," for example. Despite its grand scale, the layout felt disjointed—contrasting sharply with the interconnected levels of Doom I. The urban environments seemed almost badly thrown together, leading to occasional moments of confusion during exploration. It all felt like a big speedmap, which in my opinion I really dislike. (A speedmap is a custom map created within a short time limit. These maps are typically made with a focus on quick design.)

Nevertheless, Doom II holds a special place in my heart. The introduction of the new demons, for instance, provided a new level of excitement, with the new skills needed to defeat them. I still find incredible joy in creating custom maps, creating challenges within Doom II.

The Charm of The Ultimate Doom

Gameplay of The Ultimate Doom's E4M1

Now, let’s turn our attention to The Ultimate Doom, released in 1995. Many fans view it as the definitive version of the original game, and I completely agree. The added episode, Thy Flesh Consumed, not only provided coherence to earlier maps but also introduced fresh harder challenges that kept older players engaged.

The Ultimate Doom polished the winning formula of Doom I with new gameplay mechanics and levels. Each map is carefully crafted, offering a blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving that strikes a perfect balance. For example, the level design shows players to think critically about navigating and overcoming obstacles.

As I worked on my own maps, I drew inspiration from the level design of The Ultimate Doom. The atmosphere—rich, haunting soundscapes combined with well-rendered environments—contributed to an unparalleled sense of immersion. Each playthrough reaffirmed my belief that The Ultimate Doom is the pinnacle of classic Doom installments.

Doom 64: A Puzzling And Dark Experience

It’s important to mention Doom 64, released in 1997, as it attempted to redefine the series with more intricate maps and an eerie atmosphere. I appreciated its distinct approach—but admittedly, I encountered challenges with the custom mapping tools. The lack of comprehensive tutorials and builders limited my creativity, perhaps leading to my less enthusiastic embrace of the game.

I really love dark and eerie atmospheres in games and media, so I really enjoyed Doom 64, but not as much as Doom I and The Ultimate Doom.

Doom 64 succeeded in creating a deeply dark immersive experience. The game introduced new amazing visuals and redesigned monsters and weapons, which brought a refreshing take on the series. Despite my frustrations, I recognize Doom 64 has its own unique charm and identity, creating a different essence of the Doom legacy.

Final Thoughts on the Classic Doom Installments

Reflecting on the lasting influence of Doom and its various installments, it's evident each game offers something distinct. Doom I set the foundational tone, while Doom II broadened the scope—though I still have bad thoughts about its city maps. Doom 64 presented a new atmosphere but fell short in user-friendly mapping tools.

Ultimately, The Ultimate Doom is in my opinion above the rest. Its well-structured episodes, masterfully designed levels, and immersive atmosphere make it the complete package for players and mappers alike. As I continue to create and explore within the realm of Doom, I know without a doubt that The Ultimate Doom will always hold a very special place in my heart.