Introduction to the New Release
The original Doom and Doom II have made a high-profile return, courtesy of ZeniMax, offering gamers a chance to experience these classics with modern enhancements. This recent re-launch, packed as a bundle, brings a slew of new features while retaining the nostalgia of the original games.
Key Features and Enhancements
This re-release includes high-resolution texture remasters, although the games still maintain their characteristic blocky aesthetic. The package supports online multiplayer and crossplay, allowing players to connect across different platforms. Additionally, the games now feature a 16:9 viewport, supporting 4K resolution with a smooth 120 frames per second. All these improvements ensure a richer gaming experience while honoring the classic essence of Doom and Doom II.
Historical Context and Compatibility
This is not the first revival attempt by Bethesda, ZeniMax’s parent publisher. In 2019, Doom and Doom II were resurrected separately on Steam and Microsoft Store, introducing modern Windows executables, WASD controls, a 16:9 viewport, “HD” textures, and the original MIDI background score pre-rendered as PCM. Both the 2019 and the new 2024 releases are fully compatible with the latest Windows 11, eliminating the need for emulators.
Additional Content and Availability
The 2024 re-launch is comprehensive, including all episodes of Doom, Doom II, all public mods, and a new first-party Doom episode titled “Legacy of Rust,” developed by community members who previously worked at id Software. This new episode features additional weapons like a flamethrower and offers a new remixed background score. Players can choose between this new soundtrack, a pre-rendered original soundtrack, a pre-rendered Yamaha OPL3 FM synth soundtrack, or the option to use a MIDI device.
The Doom and Doom II 2024 release is available on GOG, Steam, EGS, and Microsoft Store for $9.99, offering accessible pricing for both new players and long-time fans.
