Should I Play Doom Before Doom Eternal?

When It Makes Sense

• Good fit: You enjoy gaming history and want to experience how the series evolved, so playing the 1993 Doom gives context for the mechanics and design philosophy that Doom Eternal builds upon.
• Good fit: You have limited time but prefer a short, intense experience; the original Doom can be completed in a few sessions, letting you gauge the franchise before committing to the longer campaign of Doom Eternal.

When You Should Avoid It

• Warning sign: You are primarily interested in modern graphics and fast-paced combat; the retro visuals and slower movement of the 1993 engine may feel like a chore rather than a benefit.
• Warning sign: You have a tight gaming budget and the cost of both titles (or a bundle) exceeds what you’re willing to spend; skipping the original can free up funds for other priorities.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Playing Doom first provides a historical baseline, making the design choices in Doom Eternal feel more deliberate and rewarding.
• The original game is relatively short and inexpensive, offering a low‑commitment way to test whether the series’ core concepts appeal to you.

Cons

• The 1993 graphics, UI, and controls can feel dated, potentially diminishing enjoyment for players accustomed to modern standards.
• Time spent on the original might delay your access to Doom Eternal’s newer content, multiplayer modes, and ongoing updates.

Decision Checklist

• Do you value experiencing the franchise’s evolution and narrative continuity?
• Are you comfortable with retro graphics and gameplay mechanics, or would they be a deterrent?
• Is your budget and available playtime sufficient to accommodate both games without sacrificing other priorities?

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re unsure about diving into the classic Doom, you could start with Doom (2016), which modernizes the engine while preserving core gameplay. Another option is to watch a concise playthrough or summary of the original Doom to get the story and key mechanics without full gameplay. Finally, many bundles include Doom, Doom 2016, and Doom Eternal at a discount, letting you experience the whole series without purchasing each separately.

Final Recommendation

For gamers who appreciate series history, have the time to experiment, and enjoy retro aesthetics, playing the original Doom before Doom Eternal is a worthwhile step. If modern graphics, streamlined controls, or budget constraints are higher priorities, skipping straight to Doom Eternal (or its immediate predecessor, Doom 2016) is a practical alternative. In any case, evaluate the checklist points above and choose the path that aligns with your preferences and resources.