Summary
SomeDoomfans consider the 2016 reboot to have the best visual style in the series. Originally planned as a sequel to the franchise’s third installment, the 2016Doomproject faced significant development challenges before being shifted to a full reboot. This bold decision by developer id Software proved successful, as the 2016 game is now one of the most highly regarded entries in the series.
Developer id Software is currently celebrating the success of its latest release.Doom: The Dark Agesrecently surpassed three million players, marking the biggest launch in the studio’s history. Meanwhile, someDoomfans have taken to social media to reminisce about nostalgic elements of id Software’s older titles, particularly the acclaimed 2016 reboot.
Reddit user Whole_Turnip_6065 shared a post on the game’s subreddit, claiming that the 2016 installment has the best art style in the series. Since then, hundreds of fans have joined the discussion, with most agreeing. In their post, Whole_Turnip_6065 suggested that the rebootedDoom’s eerie and gory visuals perfectly reflect the franchise’s identity. They also acknowledged that more recent entries,EternalandThe Dark Ages, are good games. However, they argued, these titles take a design approach that doesn’t fully align with the core elements ofDoom, one ofid Software’s classic FPSs.
Fans Think the 2016 Game Was More ‘Doom-esque’
Inevitably, many fans have compared the 2016 installment’s art style with id Software’s 2025 release.Doom: The Dark Ageswas promoted as a faithful prequel, which led to many expecting a return to its roots. However, its attempt to expand the game’s universe by modernizing gameplay has caused some deviations. For instance, the new game makes heavy use of color cues, which may not sit well with fans of classicDoom. Some have also suggested thatThe Dark Agesfeels caught betweenEternal’s comical tone andDoom’s focus on intense, action-driven gameplay.
Of course, these recent discussions don’t suggest that id Software made a misstep.Doom: The Dark Agessuccessfully introduces new gameplay elementsthat have been well-received. The thing is that many of these additions, such as the emphasis on dodge and parry, require visual changes. Several fans have acknowledged that without the color-cue-driven design, the 2025Doomcould have been nearly unplayable. Still, many die-hard fans hope id Software can strike a better balance in future installments, with a game that doesn’t look uninspired but still stays true to the series' roots. It also seems that, at least in terms of visual identity, the 2016 installment has come closest to being the perfect modernDoomgame in the eyes of fans.
