Do I need to play Doom 2016 before Doom Eternal? This is a common question among gamers who are eager to dive into the latest installment of the iconic Doom series. With the release of Doom Eternal, many fans are wondering if they should have played its predecessor, Doom 2016, to fully appreciate the sequel’s gameplay and narrative. Let’s explore this question and provide some insights to help you decide whether you should play the first game before diving into the second.
Doom 2016, released in 2016, was a reboot of the classic Doom series, which had been dormant for nearly a decade. The game received widespread acclaim for its intense gameplay, nostalgic atmosphere, and modern graphics. It brought back the fast-paced, action-packed gameplay that fans loved from the original Doom games, while also introducing new mechanics and features.
Doom Eternal, released in 2019, is the sequel to Doom 2016 and continues the story of the lone marine fighting against the demons. The game builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, offering even more intense combat, expanded levels, and a deeper storyline. With this in mind, let’s examine whether playing Doom 2016 is necessary before diving into Doom Eternal.
Firstly, it’s important to note that Doom Eternal is a direct sequel to Doom 2016. While the narrative in Doom Eternal can be followed without playing the first game, some plot points and references may be more meaningful if you have played Doom 2016. For example, the game features returning characters and locations from the first game, which might be more enjoyable if you are familiar with their backstories.
Secondly, Doom Eternal introduces new mechanics, such as the “Demon Abomination” and the “Barrage” system, which are designed to enhance the combat experience. While these mechanics can be learned and adapted to by new players, understanding their origins and the impact they have on the gameplay can be more rewarding if you have played Doom 2016.
Moreover, the atmosphere and tone of Doom Eternal are closely tied to the original game. The fast-paced, action-packed gameplay, as well as the iconic “demo mode,” are all elements that were first introduced in Doom 2016. By playing the first game, you can better appreciate the evolution of the series and the attention to detail that went into creating the sequel.
However, it’s not a strict requirement to play Doom 2016 before diving into Doom Eternal. The sequel is designed to be accessible to new players, and you can still enjoy the game’s intense combat and narrative without having played the first game. The story is relatively self-contained, and the game does a good job of catching you up on the necessary backstory through cutscenes and in-game dialogue.
In conclusion, while it’s not necessary to play Doom 2016 before Doom Eternal, doing so can enhance your experience with the sequel. The narrative, mechanics, and atmosphere of Doom Eternal are all deeply rooted in the first game, and understanding their origins can make the experience more rewarding. Ultimately, the decision to play the first game before the sequel is up to you, but consider the potential benefits before deciding whether to skip it.
