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Entertainment • Video Game

Doom (2016)

Doom (2016) is a first-person shooter developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Doom (2016) is a first-person shooter developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks. Released in 2016, it is a reboot of the Doom franchise and the first major mainline entry since Doom 3 (2004). The game launched for Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, with later versions for Nintendo Switch and Stadia.

Gameplay

Doom (2016) is a fast-paced first-person shooter that emphasizes aggressive combat, mobility, and close-range finishing attacks. Its combat design is often noted for the glory kill mechanic and modernized movement while drawing on the style of the original Doom games.

Development and release

The game was developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks. It was known during development as Doom 4. It launched in 2016 after a long development period and later received additional platform releases, including a Nintendo Switch port in November 2017 and a Stadia version in August 2020.

Setting and story

The game is set on Mars and in Hell, where a UAC facility is overrun by demonic forces. The player controls the Doom Slayer, an ancient warrior awakened during the invasion.

Reception

Doom (2016) received strong critical reception at launch and is generally regarded as a successful return for the series. It is commonly discussed as one of the key modern revivals of the Doom franchise.

Key facts

  • It was known during development as Doom 4.
  • It is widely described as a reboot or soft reboot of the Doom franchise.
  • The game was first released worldwide on May 13, 2016.
  • A Nintendo Switch port was released in November 2017.
  • A Stadia version was released in August 2020.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of game is Doom (2016)?
It is a first-person shooter developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks.
When was Doom (2016) released?
It was released on May 13, 2016, for Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Is Doom (2016) a reboot?
Yes. It is generally described as a reboot or soft reboot of the Doom franchise.
Who is the main character in Doom (2016)?
The player controls the Doom Slayer, an ancient warrior awakened during a demonic invasion.
What platforms did Doom (2016) appear on?
It launched on Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One, with later releases on Nintendo Switch and Stadia.

References

  1. DoomWiki.orghttps://doomwiki.org/wiki/Doom_(2016)
    Supports: Release date, developers, platforms, and series context.
  2. Wikipediahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doom_(2016_video_game)
    Supports: Genre, reboot status, platforms, and later releases.
  3. Fandomhttps://doom.fandom.com/wiki/Doom_(2016)
    Supports: Soft reboot description, setting, protagonist, and later port information.