It’s been almost ten years since the new DOOM game came out, and recently discovered materials are giving fans a better look at early ideas for the game. Originally, DOOM wasn’t planned as the fast-paced reboot we know today. The developers at id Software considered a game that would have felt more like a mix of Call of Duty and Gears of War.
The development of DOOM (2016) was a lengthy and challenging process. First revealed in 2008 as DOOM 4, the game underwent a complete restart in 2011 due to difficulties during production. Initially, id Software aimed for significant changes to the DOOM series, including a controversial decision to exclude the iconic Doom Slayer character. Now, thanks to leaked materials shared by Reddit user CrispyMaker, we can get a glimpse of what the original reboot concept might have been like.
Leaked DOOM Assets Show What the Game Could Have Been
A user named CrispyMaker shared nine pieces of concept art on the /GamingLeaksAndRumors subreddit. While the artwork is visually stunning, it doesn’t quite capture the feel of the DOOM series. Many of the images feature disturbing creatures reminiscent of Dead Space or The Thing, alongside detailed environments and even a vehicle design. The art showcases impressive designs, from industrial factory levels to futuristic technology and ancient statues. However, it seems this original vision for a DOOM reboot felt more suited for a spin-off title, and these leaked images might explain why the concept was ultimately changed.
Nine years ago, NoClip released a documentary called To Hell and Back which explored the challenges id Software encountered while rebooting the DOOM franchise. The developers discussed their internal debates about the game’s direction, noting that while many appreciated the design, it ultimately strayed too far from what made DOOM unique. As game director Marty Stratton explained in the documentary, the reboot had impressive visuals and production quality, but “it didn’t feel as much like DOOM as I think a lot of us expected.” Considering the medieval setting of DOOM: The Dark Ages, it’s evident id Software is willing to experiment, but their initial plan for the reboot simply went too far off course.
It didn’t feel as much like DOOM as I think a lot of us expected.
What Was DOOM 4 Going to Be Like?
The original concept for DOOM 4 was quite different from the fast-paced, action-packed game we eventually got. Instead of a relentless fight through hell, it would have been a darker, more grounded story set on Earth, similar to games like Gears of War and Call of Duty. The focus shifted from a lone demon slayer to a military resistance, with humans fighting back against the invasion. It would have even included cover mechanics, a feature not typically associated with DOOM. While this more realistic and impactful approach had potential, id Software ultimately decided to go in a different direction, leading to the highly praised 2016 DOOM and setting the stage for future games in the series. It seems they made the right choice!
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2025-12-10 21:34