It was not the first of it’s kind. Not even the first of it’s own series. It was the best that the first person shooter genre had produced at the time. Created by Id, who created the FPS, Doom II: Hell On Earth is still the gold standard when we talk about retro shooters. It took everything that worked from the first game, trimmed what didn’t, and added more carnage to the franchise.
The unnamed Marine, Doom Guy, has returned from Mars. It seems the demonic invasion has spilled over into Earth. The remains of mankind have decided to abandon the planet, but demons control where the spaceships are. Doom Guy will have to rip and tear his way through the armies of Hell. Once humanity has escaped, he will take his own private war straight to the gates of Hell itself.
Doom II did not have huge graphic update. The controls and game play were the same. The developers decided to create levels that were much larger and more complex. The game seemed much larger then the previous title. You could find more secrets and ammo if you explored off the beaten path. The only new weapon was the Super Shotgun. Bosses from the previous game became common enemies. The new levels did feature more grotesque atmosphere, especially later in the game.
The previous game was released in three separate ones. Doom II was one glorious episode. This change also allowed players to keep all of their equipment. The game flew off out of the stores. A far cry from selling the first game through the mail. Doom II also claimed another first. It was the first to be rated M from the newly formed Entertainment Software Rating Board.
Doom II also was the first conclusion to the series. The end of the game shows that Doom Guy did end the invasion of Hell. Doom 3 would actually reboot the series. It marked a change from the fast paced style of the first two games. The new series has returned to this old style of play. You just can’t mess with perfection.
