The Legendary E1M1 Level
The first level of Doom (1993)—E1M1—is renowned for a myriad of reasons. Over the years, countless players have experienced its frenetic yet straightforward gameplay. Its enduring appeal has only grown with the recent release of a new collection of Doom and Doom 2. The level’s iconic status makes it a perfect subject for remakes and mods, attracting attention from both old fans and new gamers alike.
E1M1 Remade in Doom Eternal
Recently, a modder known as Bloodshot1 has given E1M1 a fresh coat of paint using Doom Eternal’s modern graphics and engine. Incorporating the Pistol Restoration Mod, this remake has been showcased in a full playthrough by a YouTube channel. Despite the visual upgrade, there’s a sense of nostalgic simplicity in this remake. E1M1 holds up well under the scrutiny of modern game design, though some may find it barebones compared to today’s bombastic openers in premium games. It feels akin to an ambitious student project utilizing assets from a free store, modest yet sincere.
Game Design Then and Now
The comparison between classic and contemporary game design is starkly drawn by such remakes. Thirty years ago, developers aimed to ease players into games with straightforward level designs. In contrast, modern titles often start with grandiose sequences designed to captivate immediately. This was beautifully illustrated earlier this month when Bethesda surprise-released an enhanced bundle of Doom and Doom 2. The updated version included a more robust engine, new music, and pleasing graphical features, alongside a new expansion that underscored how far game design has evolved in the last three decades.
The Timelessness of Solid Fundamentals
Despite the evolving landscape of game design, the foundational elements of titles like Doom or Tetris remain fun and engaging. According to PC Gamer, the lasting impact of Doom is undeniable. Writer Dominic Tarason emphasized how the new maps feel like coherent spaces, a contrast to the abstract environments of classic Doom. This highlights that while game design grows more intricate, fundamental gameplay mechanics continue to captivate audiences, ensuring their place in gaming history.
