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Comparing doom: which game should you start with?

Doom Showdown | Best Entry Point for New Gamers?

By

Sofia Petrova

Feb 5, 2026, 09:20 AM

Edited By

Liam Chen

Updated

Feb 6, 2026, 04:41 PM

2 minutes of duration

Doom Slayer in action against demons in a vibrant battle scene from Doom games
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The debate among gamers about which Doom title to start with is heating up. Discussions on various forums suggest Doom (2016) remains the favorite for newcomers, with Doom Eternal and Doom: The Dark Ages also prompting varied opinions.

The Pros and Cons of Each Title

Many players see Doom (2016) as the best starting point, emphasizing its straightforward and engaging mechanics. One player noted, "Itโ€™s actually the only modern Doom I need." Yet, some argue Eternal takes the series further but can overwhelm new players. As one comment put it, "Eternal is bloated with abilities and didn't work for me."

Fans emphasize various aspects of each title, shaping a lively conversation:

  • Doom (2016): Praised for its "pure, simple fun," this title is acknowledged for easy accessibility, making it a favorite choice for beginners.

  • Doom Eternal: While it offers dynamic gameplay, it also demands significant learning. Many noted, "Unless you like to put in effort to learn it, you wonโ€™t have as good a time."

  • Doom: The Dark Ages: Though it aims for a different style with Lovecraftian elements, some players feel it strays too far from core gameplay. One noted, "It felt like a rhythm game with guns."

Some users encourage playing in release order, citing that this allows players to appreciate each gameโ€™s evolution better. A comment stated, "Eternal is better than 2016 in every way, but 2016 is still great."

Community Voices

Meanwhile, a player seeking the best run-and-gun experience indicated their preference: "If thatโ€™s your criteria, then DOOM > Dark Ages > Eternal." This comment reflects a growing sentiment that Eternal focuses too much on platforming and disrupts the flow that defines Doom gameplay.

Key Points of Discussion

  • โœ… Doom (2016) wins for its engaging mechanics; many find it hard to beat.

  • โš ๏ธ Doom Eternal offers deeper gameplay but may scare off new players.

  • ๐ŸŒ€ Doom: The Dark Ages proposes a unique spin but leaves some wanting more from the classic Doom feel.

The excitement surrounding Doom (2016) could lead to a resurgence in discussions and content related to it as new players jump on the franchise. The diversity of gameplay experiences may also spark ideas for future expansions catered to evolving community preferences.