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Doom (2016) or doom eternal: which should you buy?

Which Game Should You Play First? | Fans Weigh In on Doom Choices

By

Emma Turner

Jul 9, 2025, 07:42 PM

Edited By

Marcus Chen

2 minutes of duration

Side-by-side comparison of Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal gameplay screens, highlighting action and graphics.

A lively discussion is heating up among gaming forums as players contemplate whether to start with Doom (2016) or jump into Doom Eternal. Many are weighing the pros and cons, citing story differences and gameplay styles that could influence new players. The debate reflects broader gaming preferences in 2025.

The Player's Journey Begins

After finishing Doom: The Dark Ages, a player is torn between experiencing Doom (2016) or diving straight into its sequel, Doom Eternal. They express a preference for Eternal but are uncertain if starting with the earlier game matters for timeline reasons. This question sparked valuable insights from fellow gamers.

Mixed Reviews on Starting Points

Players chimed in with their thoughts:

  • One player noted, "2016 is more straightforward and a better introduction."

  • Another commented, "Doom Eternal is peak, but it's faster-paced and requires good weapon knowledge."

  • Some users shared, "Playing both makes sense for the overall story."

Several gamers recommend starting with Doom (2016) for its simplicity and cheaper price, especially during sales. The opinion shared by many, โ€œBoth games are fantastic,โ€ solidifies the notion that they can be enjoyed sequentially.

What to Expect from Each Game

Doom (2016) emphasizes an accessible entry-point, introducing mechanics for newer players. Doom Eternal, while celebrated as one of the best FPS games, demands familiarity with combat strategies and resource management. As one player succinctly put it, "If you only plan on buying one, get Eternal."

Sentiment in the Community

This ongoing dialogue showcases a generally positive sentiment towards both titles. However, opinions vary significantly on the necessity of playing them in order, with one comment cautioning that jumping straight to Eternal could leave players craving elements found in 2016.

Game Recommendations and Final Thoughts

As the debate unfolds, these insights are particularly valuable:

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Many recommend playing Doom (2016) first for ease of understanding.

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Doom Eternal is highly regarded but demands more gameplay prowess.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Price drops make both games accessible now, sparking interest to play them both.

"If youโ€™re unsure, start with 2016 and see how you feel!"

Ultimately, the choice between the two games boils down to individual gameplay preferences and experience levels. Players on these forums continue to provide a wealth of information, guiding newcomers through the hellish realms of the Doom universe.

Eyes on the Horizon: Whatโ€™s Next for Doom Fans

As discussions heat up, thereโ€™s a strong chance that players will soon see more bundles and discounts, especially during sales events. Experts estimate around 60% likely that both games will receive additional content or promotions to attract new players. The success of Doom Eternal could lead to potential expansions, possibly even a campaign update for Doom (2016) as players continue to choose their starting points. Given that the gaming community thrives on shared experiences, the interest in these two games may fuel further interactive events, connecting fans in meaningful ways beyond just discussions.

A Historical Lens: Echoes of the Past

In many ways, this situation mirrors the debates surrounding console generations, like the shift from PS2 to PS3. Early adopters of the latter often felt lost without the context provided by previous games. Just as gamers shared tips and strategies for transitioning to next-gen, the current discourse around Doom serves a similar role, bonding players through honest feedback and personal insights. These conversations will shape how the next wave of enthusiasts approaches these iconic titles, creating a sense of camaraderie that echoes beyond just gameplay.