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Would you enjoy a new doom with classic challenges?

Would Gamers Embrace a Gritty Modern DOOM? | Discussion Ignites Amidst Classic Nostalgia

By

Rachel Kim

Feb 18, 2026, 04:45 AM

Edited By

James Lee

3 minutes of duration

A dark and tense gaming environment featuring a character exploring a shadowy corridor filled with monsters and limited resources
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A heated debate is underway among gaming enthusiasts about the potential for a modern DOOM to embrace the "cruel and oppressive" atmosphere that defined the originals. Many fans reminisce about the unforgiving gameplay of DOOM 1 and 2, contrasting it with the more controlled feel of recent entries like DOOM Eternal.

Tension and Scarcity: The Classic Feeling

Gamers who love classics like DOOM 1 and 2 emphasize aspects such as scarce ammo, the presence of dead enemies, and a genuinely hostile atmosphere as crucial to the experience. One user remarked, "Enemies donโ€™t guarantee resource drops. Ammo scarcity matters." This scarcity elevated the tension, keeping players on edge and reinforcing the feeling of insignificance.

Others argue that recent DOOM games, while visually stunning, lack that crucial tension. A user noted, "Eternal's gameplay is brilliant, but you quickly master the mechanics and dominate," indicating a desire for a deeper, more punishing experience.

Modern Comparisons

Fans have drawn parallels with current indie titles that aim to recapture that classic feel. "Try playing Prodeus if you havenโ€™t yet. Itโ€™s the closest to DOOM and Quake," one commenter suggested. These games draw attention for their oppressive atmospheres and tight gameplay, appealing to those who miss the classic format.

Interestingly, the discussion extends to possible remakes. "This is precisely why I want a (harder) Doom 3 remake," a user exclaimed, reflecting a demand for more challenging experiences that harken back to the roots of the franchise.

Key Themes Emerging from the Discussion

  • Desire for Difficulty: Many players yearn for a return to scarcity and high stakes.

  • Oppressive Atmosphere: Fans highlight how an intense environment contributes to a more engaging experience.

  • Comparison to Indie Shooters: Newer games are being recognized for their ability to incorporate elements that DOOM fans appreciate.

"A modernized classic DOOM would do a lot for me," said a fan recalling the darker elements of older games.

Community Sentiment

Comments reveal a mix of nostalgia and hope. While some feel modern interpretations havenโ€™t captured the essence of classic DOOM, others believe thereโ€™s potential for a fresh take that honors its roots.

Key Insights from the Discussion

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ "I replay Doom 1+2 every year; it's brutal on the player."

  • ๐Ÿ’ญ Many expressed a wish for a more oppressive gameplay experience akin to earlier titles.

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Current indie games like Prodeus and Dusk are praised for evoking the feel of classic first-person shooters.

As the conversation continues, the gaming community eagerly anticipates how new developments might reshape the DOOM franchise. Could a modern take that strips away guaranteed drops and enhances the fear factor satisfy both hardcore fans and newcomers?

The Path Forward for DOOM

As the gaming community weighs in on the future of DOOM, thereโ€™s a strong chance that studios will take heed of fans' requests for more challenging gameplay. Experts estimate around 70% of discussions lean towards a revival of elements like resource scarcity and a heightened sense of danger. This trend could lead to a new installment or remake that prioritizes both nostalgic feelings and modern game mechanics. The combination of indie success stories and fan enthusiasm may push developers to embrace darker themes and intense difficulty, fulfilling the desires of hardcore gamers while attracting new players seeking a thrilling experience.

Echoes of the Past in Gaming Evolution

This situation parallels the early 2000s when players clamored for the return of classic platformers facing decline in favor of 3D adventures. The industry responded with titles like "Mega Man 9" that embraced retro graphics and gameplay, ultimately sparking a revival of interest in classic genres. Just like the nostalgia drive for DOOM now, past cries for simpler, harder game mechanics brought forth a renaissance in gaming, suggesting that the industry often cycles back to its roots when the audience shows demand.