Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteFor most players looking for one place to start, DOOM (2016) is the best all-round choice: it puts the series’ fast, aggressive combat at the center of a modern campaign. There is no objectively established winner, though. Choose DOOM Eternal for a bigger, more demanding continuation, DOOM (1993) or DOOM II for the classic FPS experience, and DOOM 3 for slower, horror-focused play.
How to choose the best Doom game for you
The series shifts between different kinds of action, so “best” depends on what you want from a shooter. Use the comparison below to find the entry that matches your preferred pace and style.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
DOOM Eternal: Standard Edition - PlayStation 4 | $27.49 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
DOOM: The Dark Ages – Xbox Series X | $31.49 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
DOOM: The Dark Ages – PlayStation 5 | $65.45 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Doom - Xbox One | $26.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
DOOM + DOOM II (Limited Run Games #144) - for Playstation 5 | $44.48 | Buy on Amazon |
| Game | Best for | What sets it apart |
|---|---|---|
| DOOM (2016) | A modern, all-round starting point | Fast movement and push-forward combat in a modern campaign. |
| DOOM Eternal | Players who want a larger, more involved sequel | More weapons and enemies, more lore, and a bigger campaign. GamesRadar’s guide describes its expanded scope. |
| DOOM (1993) | Players who want the foundational classic | The original game’s classic FPS design. |
| DOOM II | Players who want another classic campaign | Adds the Super Shotgun and tougher demons to the classic formula. |
| DOOM 3 | Players who prefer horror and tension | A slower, darker reimagining set on Mars, with a more menacing atmosphere. |
Why DOOM (2016) is the best starting point for most players
DOOM (2016) is a strong first choice if you want the recognizable Doom mix of speed, weapons, and demon-slaying without starting with a decades-old design. Bethesda describes its combat as fast and fluid, built around pushing forward rather than hanging back. The game’s co-director, Marty Stratton, told TIME in 2016: “Our presentation of the game has been much more about gameplay this time.” He said the team highlighted “combat,” “the demons and guns and speed.”
That emphasis makes the 2016 entry a useful bridge: it keeps combat as the main event while presenting it in a modern campaign. If that balance is what you mean by “best,” it is the clearest recommendation.
#1 Best Overall
- Gain access to the latest demon-killing Tech with the DOOM Slayer's advanced praetor suit, including a shoulder-mounted flamethrower and the retractable wrist-mounted DOOM Blade
- Upgraded guns and mods, such as the Super shotgun's new distance-closing meat hook attachment, and abilities like the double Dash make you faster, stronger, and more versatile than ever
- You can't Kill demons when you're Dead, and you can't stay alive without resources. These tools are the key to your survival and becoming the ultimate demon-slayer
- A new class of (destructible) demon
- Battle mode is the new 2 versus 1 multiplayer experience built from the ground up at id software
Choose DOOM Eternal for a bigger, more demanding continuation
DOOM Eternal builds on the modern approach with more weapons and enemies, more lore, and a larger campaign. It is the pick for players who finish DOOM (2016) wanting a broader follow-up with more systems and content. If you mainly want a straightforward introduction to the series’ modern combat, start with 2016 instead.
Pick DOOM (1993) or DOOM II for classic Doom
The original DOOM is the foundational game, while DOOM II adds the Super Shotgun and tougher demons. Choose between them based on whether you want to begin at the start or jump to the sequel’s additions; both deliver the classic FPS style rather than the modern campaign structure of the 2016 and Eternal games.
Rank #2
- Developed by id Software, DOOM: The Dark Ages is the prequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal that tells the epic cinematic origin story of the DOOM Slayer’s rage.
- In this third installment of the modern DOOM series, players will step into the blood-stained boots of the DOOM Slayer, in this never-before-seen dark and sinister medieval war against Hell.
- A dark fantasy/sci-fi single-player experience that delivers the searing combat and over-the-top visuals of the incomparable DOOM franchise, powered by the latest idTech engine. With a customizable difficulty system, it’s the perfect entry point whether you’re new to the franchise or a long time fan.
- As the super weapon of gods and kings, shred enemies with devastating favorites like the Super Shotgun while also wielding a variety of new bone-chewing weapons, including the versatile Shield Saw.
- Experience the origin story of the DOOM Slayer’s rage in this epic, cinematic, and action-packed story.
For access, Bethesda’s DOOM + DOOM II combined release includes both games along with additional content, including SIGIL and Legacy of Rust. Bethesda lists versions for PC, Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 4 and 5, and Nintendo Switch. Eligible existing digital owners on specified platforms receive a free upgrade; check the current platform store and eligibility terms before buying.
Choose DOOM 3 if you want horror over speed
DOOM 3 takes a different route from the series’ faster entries. Its darker Mars setting and slower, more menacing tone make it the best fit if you want tension and horror rather than relentless forward momentum. Bethesda’s DOOM 3 retrospective discusses that horror-oriented direction.
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Rank #3
- Developed by id Software, DOOM: The Dark Ages is the prequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal that tells the epic cinematic origin story of the DOOM Slayer’s rage.
- In this third installment of the modern DOOM series, players will step into the blood-stained boots of the DOOM Slayer, in this never-before-seen dark and sinister medieval war against Hell.
- A dark fantasy/sci-fi single-player experience that delivers the searing combat and over-the-top visuals of the incomparable DOOM franchise, powered by the latest idTech engine. With a customizable difficulty system, it’s the perfect entry point whether you’re new to the franchise or a long time fan.
- As the super weapon of gods and kings, shred enemies with devastating favorites like the Super Shotgun while also wielding a variety of new bone-chewing weapons, including the versatile Shield Saw.
- Experience the origin story of the DOOM Slayer’s rage in this epic, cinematic, and action-packed story.
Which Doom game should you buy?
- One modern game for a first playthrough: DOOM (2016).
- A larger, more involved modern campaign: DOOM Eternal.
- The original classic FPS: DOOM (1993).
- The classic sequel and Super Shotgun: DOOM II.
- A slower, horror-focused experience: DOOM 3.
If you want a physical collection rather than a single entry, Bethesda’s DOOM Anthology bundles DOOM (1993), DOOM II, DOOM 64, DOOM 3, DOOM (2016), and DOOM Eternal Deluxe Edition. It also includes an exclusive SteelBook and a five-inch LED BFG replica. Check the current listing for platform and availability details.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Is there an objectively best Doom game?
No comparable, authoritative statistic establishes one Doom game as the series’ best. The available evidence supports distinct design goals, not a universal ranking: the answer depends on whether you value modern combat, a larger sequel, classic FPS design, or horror atmosphere.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- DOOM + DOOM II on a region-free physical disc.
- Includes: DOOM, DOOM II, TNT: Evilution, The Plutonia Experiment, Master Levels for DOOM II, No Rest for the Living, Sigil & Sigil II, Legacy of Rust (a new episode created in collaboration by id Software, Nightdive Studios and MachineGames).
- A new Deathmatch map pack featuring 25 maps
- Total of 187 mission maps and 43 deathmatch maps in DOOM + DOOM II
- # of Players: Single System 1-4, Local wireless 1-8, Online 1-16
Rank #4
- A Relentless Campaign: There is no taking cover or stopping to regenerate health as you beat back Hell's raging demon hordes
- Return of id Multiplayer: Dominate your opponents in DOOM's signature, fast-paced arena-style combat
- Near-Limitless Gameplay: Doom SnapMap – A Powerful, but Easy-to-Use Game and Level Editor That Allows for Limitless Gameplay Experiences on Every Platform
- Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) Content Description: Blood and gore, intense violence, strong language
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
