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Reasons behind absence of multiplayer in doom 2016

Multiplayer Absence in Doom 2016 | Fans Seek Clarity

By

Kota Yamamoto

Apr 22, 2025, 12:13 PM

Edited By

Omar El-Sayed

Updated

Apr 24, 2025, 09:07 AM

2 minutes of duration

A graphic showing Doom 2016 logo with a question mark on a dark background, symbolizing missing multiplayer features.
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A growing coalition of gamers is pushing back against the lack of multiplayer features in Doom (2016), particularly its version released on platforms like GOG. This has ignited controversy amid claims of DRM restrictions, stirring frustrations among players who feel left out of essential gaming experiences.

Context and Significance

Despite the game's acclaim, multiplayer options are notably absent from the GOG release. This creates a dialogue on user autonomy and the limitations imposed by policies like DRM.

What's the Hold-Up?

Discussions are intensifying over several key themes:

  1. DRM Limitations

    Many commenters link the absence of multiplayer to DRM policies. One user remarked, "Most modern online multiplayer requires some form of DRM," contradicting GOG's no-DRM stance, which seems to hinder options like dedicated servers.

  2. User-hosted Servers

    A growing concern is the shift away from allowing players to host dedicated servers. "Because companies nowadays sadly donโ€™t let users host dedicated servers," noted one participant, highlighting an industry trend.

  3. Cheat Prevention

    Some believe anti-cheat measures, often seen as a form of DRM, pose a challenge. "Cheaters. Or rather, anti-cheat, which are a form of DRM," pointed out another, suggesting these complications lead developers to eliminate multiplayer features entirely from the game's release.

"It would be amazing if we got games with 100% DRM-free multiplayer.โ€ - Enthusiastic fan

Sentiment Overview

The responses showcase a mix of frustration and hope. Gamers express enthusiasm for potential solutions while voicing their concerns over current limitations. Issues of ownership and access remain central to these discussions as the community seeks to clarify the future of multiplayer gaming without restrictive measures.

Highlights

  • ๐Ÿ”’ "Most modern online multiplayer requires some form of DRM."

  • ๐Ÿ“ฅ GOG promotes ownership, avoiding sudden access revocations.

  • ๐ŸŒ Interest in alternatives for multiplayer connections, like direct links and VPNs.

As these conversations unfold, the demand for resolution grows stronger within the gaming community. Why shouldn't gamers enjoy online play without the burdens of DRM? The absence of multiplayer in Doom (2016) continues to be a hot topic among enthusiasts and industry observers.