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Top doom game recommendations for newcomers in 2026

New Players Weigh In | Top Recommendations for DOOM's Best Entry Points

By

Fatima Al-Nasir

Feb 6, 2026, 12:15 PM

Edited By

Dominic Crown

2 minutes of duration

A collage featuring iconic characters and scenes from the DOOM games, showcasing intense action moments and dark environments.
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A conversation has ignited among gamers discussing the best DOOM game for newcomers. With both nostalgia and modern updates on the line, opinions vary widely on which title serves as the best introduction to the iconic franchise.

Classic vs. Modern Debate

When it comes to recommending a fistful of hell for beginners, many voices agree on the significance of experiencing earlier titles. "Doom and Doom II. No mods, just straight to the point," states one comment, reflecting a common sentiment.

Simultaneously, newer players are acknowledged, with some suggesting Doom (2016) as a solid starting point. An experienced gamer noted, "If you think the OG Dooms look a bit too old, then Doom 2016 is a great entry point too."

This highlights a crucial theme: the generational divide regarding game aesthetics and playability. Older players resonate with the rugged charm of the original titles, while others gravitate towards the modern graphics and gameplay mechanics.

Essential Titles

Comments reveal three main recommendations:

  1. DOOM and DOOM II - Considered foundational, providing the essential lore and mechanics.

  2. DOOM 64 - Seen as an important transition that enhances the original experience.

  3. Doom (2016) - Perfect for newcomers with quality-of-life improvements and engaging modern gameplay.

While addressing preferences, one user remarked that their age influences their recommendation. "As an old head at 44, I grew up with the originals but recommended 2016 as the starting point.โ€œ This underscores how personal history impacts gaming preferences.

Sentiment and Views

The overall sentiment around DOOM remains positive. Many enthusiastic gamers express gratitude towards the series for paving the way in the FPS genre, noting: "Best franchise EVER, IMO.โ€ The community is united in their appreciation, albeit with differing starting points depending on player backgrounds.

"DOOM + DOOM II, DOOM 64 to understand the basics and lore."

Key Highlights

  • ๐Ÿค˜ Classic favorites: DOOM and DOOM II top the list as the go-to recommendations.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Modern options: Doom (2016) emerges as the best choice for newcomers looking for a polished experience.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Personal influences: Age and nostalgia significantly shape recommendations in the player community.

As the discussion evolves and new gamers enter the hellish landscape of DOOM, one question remains: Will the classic roots continue to stand the test against modern innovations?

Future Gaming Trajectories

Looking ahead, thereโ€™s a strong chance that the DOOM franchise will continue its appeal by blending classic elements with modern advancements. As new players join the ranks, the series may see a rise in reboots or remastered editions of earlier titles to attract nostalgia-driven fans while appealing to younger audiences. With gaming enhancements, experts estimate around a 65% likelihood that DOOM will introduce fresh content that brings old-school aesthetics into contemporary formats, potentially even incorporating virtual reality to enhance the immersive experience. This could reshape how fans engage with the franchise and spark renewed interest in its foundational lore.

Revisiting the Golden Era

One not-so-obvious parallel can be drawn from the resurgence of classic rock bands in recent decades. Just as bands like Fleetwood Mac and Genesis have found new life through modern tours and streaming services, DOOM could thrive by releasing expanded editions or collaborating with influencers in gaming. The way these bands reconnected with audiences through both their classic hits and updated performances mirrors how DOOMโ€™s legacy can adapt to fit todayโ€™s gaming landscape. By blending past experiences with fresh formats, the series might just rock the gaming world like a timeless classic.