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When it comes to FPS games, few have achieved the iconic status that the demise series has achieved. What started as shareware in the early 90s has grown into a series against which other games in the genre are compared. Today we’ll take a look at and rank all six main games in the series and see how they stack up against each other.

6. Doom 3

The third game

The third entry in the demise series is most different in tone. While the other games are more action-horror, this one takes on a more survival-horror role. Other entries have a strong focus on weapons and getting things done with as much carnage as possible. Here it goes much slower and more attention is paid to the atmosphere. There are definitely elements that fans will recognize, but it’s not that intense here. The game is still a worthy entry in the series, even if it is the weakest in the eyes of many. The gameplay is fun, as always, and the atmosphere here is unmatched in other games in the franchise. The game stands out and has a unique feel that helps to add some variety if fans want to play all the main games.

5. Doom

Gameplay of the first game in the main series

This is where it all started. This original game was far from the first first-person shooter, but it pioneered many elements that would become the staples of the genre. It also pushed the boundaries of what could be allowed in video games in terms of violence. This classic game still holds up extremely well and is still an exciting game to play today. The main games have largely improved from previous entries as the series has progressed, so many of the elements fans associate with the franchise are not present in the first game. Still, every fan of action games owes it to themselves to play this original classic. Another legendary element of this original game is the soundtrack. This soundtrack helped change the way video game music was made from this point on. One listen to the iconic E1M1 theme and it’s clear why this game is so revolutionary.

4. Doom: Eternal

Gameplay of the latest game in the Doom series

The most recent game in the demise series is packed with action, blood and carnage. The main criticism of the game from many fans is that lower difficulty settings can make the game too easy. Using certain moves on certain enemies gives the player tons of ammunition and health, making it easy to avoid dying. For many, this makes it too easy to progress and forces the player to increase the difficulty for a real challenge. Either way, the game is fast-paced, intense, and sometimes even scary. Everything that makes the series so great is here.

Even the franchise’s lore expands as the story digs deep into the legend of the one demons fear most. From the moment the game was released, fans stuck with it and loved every minute of it. The game even features an iconic villain from the series’ previous return for a final battle, forcing players to use every skill they’ve learned. forever is also filled to the brim with collectibles that help deepen knowledge, and reward players with powerful weapons and skins.

3. Doom II: Hell on Earth

Screenshot of Doom II

With the success of the original game, a follow-up was a no-brainer. With some add-ons released later to extend the ending of the original, this sequel is starting to take shape. Some fan-favorite weapons make an appearance here for the first time, and the levels are among the best in the series. The carnage and chaos all lead to a legendary battle with the Icon of Sin. To this day, few boss fights fill players with fear like this one.

The player has to use everything he has learned so far to stand a chance, and winning is one of the best feelings that any of the main games can give. Depending on who is asked, this is where the franchise really started to transform into the juggernaut it was destined to become. The original game is nearly flawless, but this one is nearly perfect.

2. Downfall (2016)

Fans were desperate for a fourth game in the demise series for years. It seemed like every time an almost came out, it got canceled or postponed. Finally, in 2016, their wishes were fulfilled. demise 2016 (aka Doom 4 by some fans) took everything from the original mainline games and brought it to the current generation. Being able to shoot through hordes of demons made the player feel an unstoppable force.

Each kill performed by the player was as satisfying as ever, and the Glory Kills only added to that satisfaction. The game mixed the classic games with elements from the third entry. This meant fans still had to rely on their instincts and survival skills, but at the same time plow through armies of demons. Fans love how fast and intense the game can be. This is an excellent place to start for modern players unfamiliar with the series.

1. Doom 64

Many feel the best game in the series in Doom 64

The Nintendo 64 was arguably the most popular console of its time. Fans were thrilled when the already iconic demise series made the jump to the console. The game takes everything from the series thus far and combines it for a fun, scary and, of course, violent time. For many, this was the best way to play the classic formula at the time. Despite the title, this game was a new and original entry for the main games. Today, it stands the test of time as not only one of the best Nintendo 64 games, but also one of the best FPS games.

The second time the game boots up, fans are treated to an incredible intro that encapsulates the franchise perfectly. Like the second game, it all leads to an incredible boss fight. The combat can be rock hard or incredibly easy, depending on how well the player has searched through the game.