DOOM II Review Summary

Last updated: 2026-02-19
  • Variety and complexity of enemies
  • Creative and challenging level design
  • Quintessential classic FPS experience
  • Outdated game with poor graphics
  • Difficult and frustrating levels
  • Port and compatibility issues
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Review evidence

Why players say this

What players like

Variety and complexity of enemies: The game introduces a wider variety of enemies, adding complexity and making combat more challenging. This variety is appreciated by players.

Creative and challenging level design: The level design is highly praised for its creativity, introducing new challenges and secrets. It represents the peak of creative confidence for id Software, with memorable and well-designed levels.

Quintessential classic FPS experience: The game is considered one of the best FPS games of all time, representing the pinnacle of the shoot 'em up genre. It is highly recommended for fans of classic shooters and those interested in the evolution of the FPS genre.

Powerful and satisfying Super Shotgun: The Super Shotgun is highlighted as a powerful and satisfying weapon that transforms combat. It is a notable addition to the game's arsenal.

Enhanced gameplay with Brutal Doom mod: The Brutal Doom mod enhances gameplay with modern FPS elements like headshots, dual-wielding, and rolling. It also improves graphics and animations, making it a game changer.

Common complaints

Outdated game with poor graphics: The game is considered outdated with dated graphics and some malicious design elements.

Difficult and frustrating levels: Some levels are hard to traverse and can be frustrating, with issues like being overloaded and poorly designed.

Port and compatibility issues: The Steam port and other source ports have performance issues and compatibility problems, making the game difficult to run properly.

New version availability: A new version of the game is available, making the original less relevant and not sold separately.

Missing features: The game lacks several modern features such as achievements, multiplayer, online co-op, and a cover system.

Gameplay and performance

Extensive modding community: The game has a vibrant modding community with a wide range of custom WADs and mods, including popular ones like Brutal Doom, enhancing replayability.

Variety in enemies and weapons: The game features a variety of weapons and enemies, including new additions that keep the combat fresh and engaging.

Enhanced gameplay with GZDoom: Players using GZDoom and other source ports like Zdoom experience a superior and modded gameplay. Compatibility with various ports enhances the gaming experience.

Ambitious and memorable level design: The game features more ambitious and abstract level designs, including arena-like and memorable levels. Players appreciate the unique and creative architecture.

Classic first-person shooter mechanics: As a classic first-person shooter, the game retains traditional shooter mechanics, providing a nostalgic experience for players.

Mouse control issues: There are reports of mouse control issues and lack of mouse operation, although some updates have included mouse support.

Resolution issues: Some players have reported issues with low and pixelated resolution, affecting the visual quality of the game.

Graphics and sound improvements: Players have noted significant improvements in graphics and sound quality, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Performance improvements with updates: Updates with the Unity engine and Zandronum have improved the game's performance.

Frequent bugs and compatibility issues: Players have reported frequent bugs and some compatibility issues with the game.

Recommendations

Classic Doom highly recommended: The original Doom games are considered classics and are highly recommended for fans of the genre and those interested in the history of FPS games.

Try Brutal Doom mod: The Brutal Doom mod is frequently recommended for those looking to enhance their gameplay experience with new features and improvements.

Use GZDoom for enhanced experience: Many players recommend using the GZDoom source port for an enhanced gaming experience with additional features and improvements.

Consider other mods and ports: Players suggest trying various mods like Project Brutality, Castlevania: Simon's Destiny, and other custom WADs, as well as different source ports like ZDoom and PrBoom+ for a varied experience.

Try Doom II and modern reboots: Players recommend trying Doom II for a classic experience and the modern reboots like Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal for a contemporary take on the series.