When DOOM (2016) launched, it wasn’t just a reboot of one of gaming’s most legendary franchises—it was a revolution. Against all odds, id Software reinvented the first-person shooter genre, blending the franchise’s old-school DNA with modern mechanics in a way that felt fresh, fast, and brutally satisfying.
Now, years after its release, DOOM (2016) remains a timeless masterpiece, standing tall as one of the best FPS games ever made. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer picking up the game for the first time, DOOM still delivers an unparalleled adrenaline rush.
Why DOOM (2016) Is Still One of the Greatest FPS Games Ever
1. Relentless, High-Speed Combat
Unlike many modern shooters that emphasize cover mechanics and tactical gameplay, DOOM (2016) takes a purely aggressive approach:
- No reloading, no hiding, no regenerating health—you fight to survive by constantly moving and tearing through enemies.
- The “Push-Forward Combat” philosophy forces you to stay in the action, rewarding bravery and skillful execution.
- Glory Kills add an extra layer of visceral satisfaction, encouraging players to get up close and personal with demons rather than playing defensively.
Every encounter feels like a brutal, chaotic dance, where the only way out is through sheer destruction.
2. A Perfect Balance of Old-School & Modern FPS Design
DOOM (2016) respects its roots while embracing the best parts of modern gaming.
- Classic FPS Staples: No regenerating health, no limit on weapons carried, and fast-paced action reminiscent of DOOM (1993) and Quake.
- Next-Gen Enhancements: Stunning visuals, smooth gunplay, and an intricate world that feels more immersive than ever.
- Smart Level Design: No dull corridors or linear pathways—levels are designed to encourage exploration, platforming, and vertical movement.
It’s the best of both worlds, appealing to both nostalgic FPS veterans and a new generation of gamers.
3. The Best FPS Soundtrack Ever? Absolutely.
Mick Gordon’s heavy metal soundtrack is as iconic as the game itself.
- Tracks like “Rip & Tear” and “BFG Division” perfectly sync with the chaos, making every encounter feel like a cinematic action sequence.
- The dynamic music system means the intensity ramps up the more aggressive you play.
The soundtrack isn’t just background noise—it’s an essential part of DOOM (2016)’s identity.
4. A Campaign That Never Lets Up
DOOM (2016) features one of the most intense, action-packed single-player campaigns in FPS history.
- No unnecessary cutscenes or filler—just pure, unfiltered demon-slaying.
- The Doom Slayer is a force of nature, and his silent rage is perfectly contrasted against the game’s dark humor and world-building.
- Memorable boss fights and escalating difficulty keep the gameplay fresh from start to finish.
Unlike many modern shooters that rely on scripted set pieces, DOOM lets its combat be the spectacle.
5. The Lasting Impact on the FPS Genre
When DOOM (2016) released, it reminded the industry that fast, aggressive shooters still had a place in gaming.
- It inspired other FPS games to rethink their combat systems.
- It paved the way for DOOM Eternal, which took the formula and made it even more intense.
- Even today, it remains a benchmark for FPS design, with many players returning to it time and time again.
