Doom

"Demonic forces invade your GBA...Time to wreck some havoc!"

Introduction:
When ID Software released the original Doom for the PC in 1994, they revolutionized what we now know as the First Person Shooter. So many clones were spawned from this game; while some were good, many failed to show the depth of originality that this game did as it broke into a new genre. Doom was ported over to several systems along the way: the Sega 32X, Atari Jaguar, Macintosh, Nintendo 64, Playstation, Super Nintendo, and now the Game Boy Advance. While the Game Boy Advance version might not be the best looking port, it does have one vital characteristic that stands out far above the other ports: it fits into your pocket!

Graphics:
Even though the graphics are about 7 years old, they still hold up just fine on the Game Boy Advance. The levels are dark and eerie, but clearly defined. Every now and then, you will notice a drop in frame rate, but considering the Game Boy Advance is pushing the limits running a 3-Dimensional game, this is not really a complaint. Overall, the graphical transition from the PC to the Game Boy Advance is a smooth and complete one. The only major gripe is that this game can be hard to see, being so dark. But that is not the Doom's problem, rather Nintendo's design flaw.
8/10

Sounds:
A great element in Doom was the sound effects and cool music. Both pieces, for the most part, have made the transition to the Game Boy Advance. The original tunes were in midi format, and the Game Boy Advance easily produces them in their completeness. The only draw back is the lack of depth when sound is concerned. At times you will hear an enemy, and while he sounds very near, in reality, he is pretty far away. This flaw does detract from the sense of 3 Dimensions to some degree, and makes it harder for you to rely on our hearing to make it through the levels. Still, you can't beat these classic tunes.
8/10

Control:
Amazingly, even with only the 2 face and 2 shoulder buttons, the Game Boy Advance features extremely sharp controls. Not only that, but they are easy to use, and feel comfortable. The shoulder buttons work great for the important strafe, and weapon select. A and B buttons also work as intended for the action command and for firing your weapon. No complaints here.
10/10

Story:
The original story is intact, however there really is not much of a story to go by. Basically, you are soldier on planet Earth. Demons are invading, and its up to you to save the planet, and ultimately, the universe. Throughout the entire game, no portion of the story is told, as straight action will guide you to the end. Fortunately, this game has got the muscle and originality behind it and does not need a story to succeed.
4/10

Gameplay:
The interface is really simple. This turns out to be good, as it helps keep the game from slowing down. Unfortunately, due to hardware issues, the developers took out a few levels. They also programmed the dead bodies to disappear soon after they fall down to the ground. This was a really cool feature in the multiplayer mode from the PC version. Speaking of which, the multiplayer mode rules, even if it is a bit too simplistic. The primary failure of the entire multiplayer aspect is that everyone playing needs his or her own copy of the game, which can prove to be annoying when you cannot find anyone else with the game. Another noticeable difference between the PC version and the Game Boy Advance version is the save points: now you can only save at the end of each level. In all fairness, this game is a blast to play by yourself or in multiplayer.
8/10

Replay Value:
This game has quite a bit of potential when it comes to replay. The single player levels will be very fun the first time though, and players will always want to come back for more. If you take into account the multiplayer, you have yourself a very long game. For some reason, playing the levels over and over never becomes tiring, which is a really good thing.
9/10

Summary:
This game should be in every Game Boy Advance owner's library. Doom is still a load of fun to play on the PC, and the tantalizing pocket version ensures a smile on your face. Whether you are pulling out your Game Boy Advance during Philosophy class to waste the time, sitting at home playing through the levels, or just indulging in a harmless frag fest, with a few of your friends, this game is extremely entertaining. Fans of the original will find great nostalgia as they play through the levels for old time's sake. Players new to the First Person Shooter genre have quite jewel to look forward to. Pick this game up and wreck some havoc on your Game Boy Advance!

Includes:
+4-Slot Battery Save
+3 Episodes Spanning 24 Levels
+2-4 Player Deathmatch Mode
+2 Player Cooperative Mode
+Ability to Kick Demon Butt!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 11/02/01, Updated 11/02/01