DOOM is broadly considered probably the most influential recreation franchises of all time. It didn’t simply assist form the first-person shooter style — it redefined what motion might seem like, laying the groundwork for icons like Name of Obligation and Halo. Many years later, DOOM continues to be evolving, pushing boundaries and thrilling gamers throughout generations.
Since its debut in 1993, the franchise has spawned an extended checklist of titles — from enhanced editions and add-ons to main mainline entries. And with DOOM: The Darkish Ages on the horizon, there’s no higher time to revisit the saga’s core timeline and canon expansions.
Whether or not you’ve already torn by means of your favourite installment otherwise you’re gearing up for the latest launch, right here’s a whole rundown of each essential DOOM recreation within the order they have been launched.
DOOM (1993)
The unique DOOM, launched in 1993, set a brand new normal for the first-person shooter style, ceaselessly altering how we expertise motion in video games. Gamers assume the position of a anonymous area marine stationed on Mars, the place a routine navy project turns right into a determined combat for survival.
After the Union Aerospace Company opens a portal to Hell, the mission turns into clear: cease the demonic invasion by any means crucial. The sport’s core focus is fight—quick, visceral, and designed for optimum depth. Whereas the mechanics are extra simple than in fashionable entries, DOOM (1993) stays a landmark title and an unforgettable expertise for newcomers and veterans alike.
DOOM not solely modified the way in which we play, but additionally raised the bar for recreation design, shortly changing into a cultural phenomenon. id Software program launched three episodes: Knee-Deep within the Lifeless, The Shores of Hell, and Inferno. The sport concludes with the invention of a demon invasion of Earth—setting the stage for its sequel.
The unique DOOM is so impactful that it was included within the Library of Congress’s Sport Canon, a curated checklist of video games acknowledged for his or her cultural and historic significance.
Highlights:
- Demonic invasion through an interdimensional portal
- The stunning reveal of Deimos floating above Hell
- Closing battles happen deep inside Hell
Iconic Weapons:
- Shotgun – The important demon-slaying device
- Chainsaw – Brutal and unforgettable
- BFG 9000 – Legendary for its sheer energy
DOOM II: Hell On Earth (1994)
Launched only a yr later, DOOM II: Hell on Earth continues the story with the demonic invasion reaching Earth. Gamers as soon as once more tackle the position of Doomguy as he fights to save lots of humanity and seal the portal between worlds.
The sequel builds on the primary recreation with larger ranges, new enemy sorts, and the debut of the enduring Tremendous Shotgun—a staple of the sequence ever since. Whereas it retains the fast-paced gameplay of the unique, DOOM II expands the universe considerably.
Newer editions typically embrace Closing DOOM (1996), which provides two further episodes—TNT: Evolution and The Plutonia Experiment. These are typically thought-about facet tales, however stay important experiences for followers of the early video games.
Highlights:
- Combat by means of Earth’s devastated cities and navy outposts
- Face off towards the formidable Icon of Sin
Iconic Weapons:
- Tremendous Shotgun – A devastating improve that grew to become a fan favourite
- The BFG, Rocket Launcher, and Chainsaw return
DOOM 64 (1997)
Typically an missed gem within the DOOM roster, DOOM 64 is neither a direct port nor a full reboot. Actually, some contemplate it one other spin-off, much like Closing DOOM, because it wasn’t developed by id Software program—the franchise’s authentic creators.
Nonetheless, many devoted followers agree that DOOM 64’s plot is integral to the story of the newer DOOM video games. DOOM II ends with humanity attempting to rebuild Earth, whereas Doomguy chooses to stay in Hell to proceed preventing the demons. In DOOM 64, he commits to defending humanity from future invasions—a call that easily connects to the narrative of later DOOM titles.
That includes redesigned graphics, 3D fashions, dynamic lighting, and an ominous, ambient soundtrack, DOOM 64 was praised as “the best-looking DOOM recreation but” upon its launch. Initially launched solely for the Nintendo 64, the sport was remastered in 2020 to important acclaim, bringing DOOM 64 to a brand new technology of gamers and additional solidifying its place within the DOOM timeline.
Highlights:
- Introduction of the Mom Demon, a strong new menace
- A darker, extra narrative-focused journey
Iconic Weapons:
- Tremendous Shotgun – Nonetheless the definitive monster-slayer
- Unmaker – A robust new vitality weapon
- Up to date visuals for returning classics
DOOM 3 (2004)
DOOM 3 is well known as probably the most suspenseful entry within the sequence, identified for its bounce scares and dense environment. Launched a decade after DOOM II, it reimagined the franchise with a give attention to survival horror and immersive storytelling.
Gamers as soon as once more step into the boots of an area marine dealing with a demonic outbreak at a UAC analysis facility—echoing the premise of the unique DOOM. This time, nevertheless, the expertise takes a extra cinematic flip, introducing voice logs, PDA interactions, and scripted sequences to deepen the narrative.
Lighting, sound design, and environmental rigidity play a central position in shaping the gameplay. The addition of the flashlight mechanic—forcing gamers to modify between illumination and fight—provides a memorable layer of suspense and technique.
Its placement within the franchise timeline continues to be debated, however many followers place it after DOOM 64, based mostly on its tone, story components, and launch chronology.
Highlights:
- Atmospheric horror replaces fast-paced motion
- Use of a PDA system for logs and puzzles
Iconic Weapons:
- Plasma Gun and BFG return
- Introduction of the Soul Dice, a demonic artifact used to heal and destroy enemies
DOOM (2016)
In the event you like just a little extra narrative together with your demon-slaying, DOOM (2016) may be the right place to leap in. This reboot reintroduces the sequence for contemporary consoles, including deeper lore and storytelling with out sacrificing the fast-paced motion that defines DOOM.
From the opening moments, the sport throws you into the chaos, emphasizing fluid motion, aggressive fight, over-the-top violence, and relentless waves of enemies. The protagonist—now often known as the DOOM Slayer—awakens in a UAC facility already overrun by demons, as soon as once more changing into humanity’s final line of protection.
With the addition of leaping, platforming and exploration tackle new depth. The contemporary method to traditional mechanics and modernized weapons brings the DOOM expertise into the current whereas honoring its roots.
A VR spinoff, DOOM VFR, adopted in 2017. Set after the occasions of DOOM, it stars Dr. Peters, a UAC worker navigating the aftermath of the invasion.
Highlights:
- Exploration of Argent Power and Hell’s exploitation
- The Slayer’s mythic origins start to emerge
Iconic Weapons:
- Fight Shotgun, Gauss Cannon, and a modernized Chainsaw
- Glory Kills mechanic launched – visceral finishers that replenish well being
- The BFG 9000 returns in all its glory
DOOM Everlasting (2020)
DOOM Everlasting picks up the place DOOM (2016) left off, elevating the stakes with quicker fight, deeper lore, and an expanded arsenal. Earth is underneath siege, and the DOOM Slayer should seek out the three Hell Monks to cease the invasion.
With new motion mechanics like dashing and the Meat Hook grapple, fight turns into extra vertical and aggressive. The sport additionally introduces celestial realms, historic Hell lore, and an enormous orbital base, including a cosmic scale to the battle.
Puzzle-solving and exploration are extra outstanding, however the tempo by no means slows. Armed with the Crucible blade and a revamped arsenal, the Slayer pushes by means of his most formidable mission but— delivering a high-octane finale to the fashionable saga.
The story continues in The Historical Gods – Half One and Half Two, the place the Slayer launches a ultimate assault throughout dimensions. The arc concludes with a showdown towards the Darkish Lord, revealing new truths concerning the Slayer’s origins.
Highlights:
- The rise of the Makers and betrayal by the Khan Maykr
- Revelations concerning the Slayer’s ties to the Night time Sentinels
- Closing showdown with the Darkish Lord
Iconic Weapons:
- Tremendous Shotgun with the Meat Hook
- Ballista, Crucible Blade, and the colossal BFG-10000
DOOM: The Darkish Ages (2025)
Launched on PlayStation 5, Home windows, and Xbox Collection X/S on Could fifteenth, 2025, DOOM: The Darkish Ages is the most recent drop from id Software program. Designed as a prequel to DOOM (2016), it locations gamers in a medieval-inspired world torn aside by demonic invasion.
Set within the early days of the Slayer’s legend, this entry reveals how the unique Doomguy grew to become the enduring DOOM Slayer. The sport introduces a brand new aesthetic and tone whereas preserving the signature depth followers love.
Early reception has been overwhelmingly constructive. In response to Metacritic, the sport holds “usually favorable” opinions, and Empire journal awarded it a uncommon 5-star score, calling it a “excellent evolution” of the franchise.
From all of us at Displate, we’re giving DOOM: The Darkish Ages a strong 10 out of 10 on the Displatemeter — an ideal storm of lore, depth, and demon-slaying motion. For followers outdated and new, it’s a hell of a strategy to (re)uncover the saga.
Rip And Tear… Then Embellish Your Lair
From the traditional 1993 launch to the battlegrounds of DOOM Everlasting, the DOOM franchise has carved out a legacy of unrelenting motion, iconic weapons, and considered one of gaming’s most legendary protagonists.
Whether or not you’ve been a part of the legacy for many years, or just lately joined the Slayer’s campaign, the unequalled vitality and brutal appeal of the video games are positive to maintain you coming again for extra. So why not carry a chunk of that infernal legacy into your own home?
Rejoice your love for the franchise with high-quality DOOM-themed Displates – premium steel posters that includes beautiful art work celebrating the very best of the DOOM universe. Whether or not you go for a neon DOOM Slayer helmet or iconic emblem artwork, there’s a Displate to go well with each fan’s shrine.
