Doom

Review

by Christopher Michael Baker

When Doom was released for computers, it revolutionized the first-person shooter. Sure, games such as Wolfenstein 3-D preceded it, but it was Doom that made this platform of gaming what it would eventually become. As a result of Doom's success on the computer screen, it was inevitable for it to make its appearance on several home console systems. For better or for worse, the 32X was one of these systems.

For the most part, everything that made Doom the sensation that it was with computers is here as well. The concept of making your way through a maze-like facility as you blow away monsters (guts and all) is here in full force. However, this is not a complete adaptation by any means.

For one thing, the game is significantly short on levels. With less than 20 total, the Doom PC purist could be disappointed. On the other hand, a person looking for a quick way to release some aggression may just want to fight his way through these levels, which could take an hour or less if he knows what he's doing.

The worst omission in this game, though, is not the lack of levels. Rather, everyone's favorite gun -- the BFG 9000 -- is nowhere to be found. Yes, it is in the instruction booklet. But good luck finding it in the game. You won't!

Despite its shortcomings, the 32X's version of Doom does have quite a bit going for it. For instance, all of the gore is there. And with it comes the satisfaction of releasing all anger on a bunch of really ugly monsters from another dimension. It's just flat-out fun, folks. Even if it is missing a few pieces.