An enhanced version of a classic FPS

DOOM 64 is a remastered port of the 1997 action game of the same name. Initially released for the Nintendo 64, this brings the classic first-person shooter experience to modern systems in celebration of the 25th DOOM anniversary.  In this entry to the long-running franchise, the Doom Marine returns to thwart another attempt at conquering the earth.

With upgraded visuals and controls adapted for modern systems, DOOM 64 is the retro experience that old and new players will both enjoy. You can also check out other entries in the franchise, such as Doom Eternal, Doom 3, or the classic Doom.

Stop the demon forces once more

DOOM 64 follows the Doom Marine after he was sent once more to stop a demon incursion. A long forgotten satellite, installed on a distant planet, sends a message back to Earth about a single entity that has thrived on a highly radioactive world. More importantly, the Marine realizes that everything has been planned with the intent of luring him back to hell.

As the remastered version, the first thing to expect is its upgraded graphics. The colors are more vivid, and the textures are more consistent. Still, it retains its signature 64-bit aesthetic. Similarly, the controls and animation receive an upgrade, carrying the signs of being made for modern platforms. Lastly, this release already includes the Lost Levels, which continues the story and connects this game with the rest of the franchise.

However, this version also comes with a set of unwelcome changes. For starters, it caps the movement speed. While it adds maneuverability for the player, it makes the game markedly easier, primarily since the older DOOM games are known to be fast-paced and challenging. Similarly, the changes to the original puzzles water down the experience, making it bland and exhausting to complete.

A hit-and-miss remake

As a modernized release, DOOM 64 certainly delivers in terms of visuals and animation. It even manages to include new levels to make this game finally canon with the rest of the franchise. Unfortunately, it comes with changes that alienate players who tried the original. There are fan remakes that are more faithful to the original than this one. Still, a good entry for new, younger players.