Nightdive Studios has breathed new life into the classic Doom and Doom 2 games with their recent remaster, continuing to enthrall fans with explosive demon-blasting adventures into 4K resolution. Since its debut last year, this remastered collection has received rave reviews from players, immersing them in the nostalgic thrill of hunting demons to the tune of Andrew Hushult’s electrifying E1M1 theme. In addition to the rich single-player campaigns—where fans have delved into John Romero’s intricate Sigil episodes and the challenging Legacy of Rust from MachineGames—multiplayer has now taken the spotlight with its latest update.
The recent update, launched earlier this week, is noteworthy for integrating multiplayer mod support, creating opportunities for broader and more dynamic gameplay experiences. Playing modded multiplayer Doom, however, requires a different approach compared to its single-player cousin. Mods must be crafted using Vanilla DOOM, DeHackEd, MBF21, or BOOM to ensure compatibility. Hosts need to activate the chosen mod before accessing the online menu, and participants must subscribe to the same mod using recommended room codes—a standard, albeit slightly more involved, method than other platforms, which often demand complex installations like Zandronum or GZDoom.
Multiplayer mod support is just the tip of the iceberg in this update. It also addresses some quirky map issues, such as red doors not appearing correctly on the automap, which has perplexed many a player trying to navigate the labyrinthine levels. Further augmentations include the introduction of a spectator mode, facilitating a more engaging experience by allowing players to observe ongoing co-op missions as they await their turn to respawn. For mod enthusiasts, enhancements have been made to the mod downloader, which can now process beyond the first 100 subscribed mods, improving the ease and range of customizations available to creators and players alike.
While the Doom classics receive these thoughtful improvements, the franchise’s next major installment, Doom: The Dark Ages, is also generating anticipation. As revealed earlier this week, this upcoming release promises a departure from the frenetic style of Doom Eternal, opting for a more grounded combat system, where players can deliver visceral glory kills from varied angles. Set to launch on May 15, it’s poised to be a significant milestone for the series.
In a nod to the ever-evolving landscape of gaming, this latest update to the Doom remasters exemplifies not only Nightdive Studios’ commitment to honoring beloved classics but also their dedication to innovating within the genre. With multiplayer mod support and exciting new gameplay features, Doom continues to carve its path into the future, proving it’s not just a relic of gaming history but a vibrant, living experience.
Closing Credits
As Nightdive Studios continues to evolve the Doom remasters, gamers can look forward to more updates that challenge and thrill in equal measure. With Doom: The Dark Ages set to release on May 15, and multiplayer mods now enriching the Doom and Doom 2 experience, the franchise shows no signs of slowing down. Be sure to stay tuned for more developments as the year’s biggest releases draw ever closer, promising yet another chapter in the legendary saga of Doom.
