DOOM ZX Spectrum Review: Exploring the Iconic Shooter on a Classic Platform
DOOM is one of the most influential video games of all time, with its fast-paced first-person shooter gameplay setting the standard for the genre. While the game was originally released for MS-DOS in 1993, it was eventually ported to a wide variety of platforms, including the ZX Spectrum.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ZX Spectrum version of DOOM and explore how it holds up today.
History of DOOM on the ZX Spectrum
The ZX Spectrum version of DOOM was not developed by id Software, the creators of the original game, but instead by a group of programmers known as Fuzzbox.
The game was released in 1997, four years after the original game’s release.
DOOM ZX Spectrum Gameplay
The gameplay of DOOM on the ZX Spectrum is, unsurprisingly, quite different from the original game. While the basic mechanics of the game remain the same, the graphics and sound have been scaled back significantly to run on the limited hardware of the ZX Spectrum.
The game features nine levels, each with its own set of challenges and enemies. The player must navigate through each level, fighting off hordes of demons and other monsters with a variety of weapons, including the iconic shotgun and chainsaw.
The controls in DOOM on the ZX Spectrum are simple but effective. The player moves their character with the arrow keys and shoots with the space bar. The game also features a rudimentary auto-map system, allowing the player to keep track of their progress through each level.
Graphics and Sound
The graphics in DOOM on the ZX Spectrum are, understandably, quite limited compared to the original game. The game uses a combination of 2D sprites and simple 3D shapes to create the illusion of a 3D environment. While the graphics may be simplistic, they are still effective at conveying the atmosphere of the game.
The sound in DOOM on the ZX Spectrum is also limited. The game features a basic soundtrack and sound effects, with each weapon having its own distinctive sound. While the sound may be simple, it is still effective at creating a tense and immersive atmosphere.
Legacy
While DOOM on the ZX Spectrum may not have the same impact as the original game, it is still an interesting artifact of video game history.
The game demonstrates the creativity and resourcefulness of early video game programmers, who were able to bring a game as complex as DOOM to a platform as limited as the ZX Spectrum.
Conclusion
DOOM on the ZX Spectrum may not be the definitive version of the game, but it is still an interesting and enjoyable experience. The game’s simple but effective gameplay, graphics, and sound make it a worthwhile addition to any retro gaming collection.
Whether you’re a fan of the original game or just looking to experience a piece of video game history, DOOM on the ZX Spectrum is definitely worth checking out.
