Doom (GBA) (Doom (GBA))

Member Name: thole09

Product:	Doom (GBA)
Date:	06/05/09 (10 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Original gameplay

Disadvantages: Some missing levels/features

"Doom" is a video game released for the Gameboy Advance console in 2001 by Activision. It is a remastered version of the popular game originally seen on the personal computer. In the United States, the game received a rating of "T" by the ESRB panel which deemed it suitable for teenage years and above due to its violent content.

The player takes control of an unnamed lone space marine, commonly referred to as "Doomguy", who is trapped on the planet of Phobos. This area has been overthrown by monsters from Hell who find their way through dysfunctional warping devices. The monsters have obliterated all human life forms and it is up to the player to escape alive. Throughout 24 stages of play, which is three stages short of the original computer release, the player will find him or herself equipped with various weaponry including true to real life issues and more futuristic high tech gadgets. The player must guide Doomguy from the beginning of the stage to the end while eliminating enemies and collecting magnetic keycards to unlock doors. The game also features a multiplayer mode via an optional game link cable; a multiple link enables four players in a head-to-head deathmatch mode and a single link enables cooperative play between two players.

Many previously seen implements required removing to suit the "teenage" age rating. Doom is notoriously known for grotesque images of decaying flesh and pools of blood. For this to have been accommodated within a more modern game, it would require the age rating of "M" for ages 17 and above and this would greatly restrict commercial sale. Now, the decaying bodies have been removed and previously red blood and now green. The graphics are otherwise comparable with the original computer, presented from a first person perspective and features simple detailing in the maps and often pixelated appearing enemies. The soundtrack is also taken directly from the computer game and features simple .MIDI musical scores with numerous bass tones and simple gunshot sound effects accenting each weapon.

Overall, I would recommend Doom to prospective buyers. As a fan of the original title it is pleasing to have it in a more modern and accessible form, and it is good to note that most of the original implements have been retained.

Summary: Thumbs up