Is Doom 1 Canon?
The answer to this question has sparked debates among fans and players of the iconic first-person shooter game, Doom. For those who are unaware, Doom 1 refers to the original Doom game released in 1993, which has since spawned numerous sequels, remakes, and spin-offs. In this article, we’ll delve into the complexities of the Doom canon and explore the significance of Doom 1 within it.
A Brief Overview of the Doom Canon
The Doom canon is the collection of games, spin-offs, and media that form the official storyline and continuity of the Doom universe. The canon includes games such as Doom (1993), Doom II (1994), Final Doom (1996), and Doom 3 (2004), as well as spin-offs like Doom VFR (2017) and Doom Eternal (2019). The canon is governed by the game’s developer, id Software, which ensures that the story and characters remain consistent across various media.
Doom 1: The Pioneer
Doom 1 is the pioneering game in the Doom series, marking the beginning of the franchise’s journey. Released in 1993, the game revolutionized the first-person shooter genre with its fast-paced action, demonic enemies, and atmospheric environments. The game’s success can be attributed to its unique blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving.
Is Doom 1 Canon?
According to the Doom wiki and fan consensus, Doom 1 is considered canon. [1] The game’s storyline is centered around an unnamed space marine (later referred to as the Doomguy) who must fight against hordes of demons and save humanity from an invasion of Mars and Hell. The game’s ending, which sees the Doomguy defeating the Mastermind and escaping Hell, sets the stage for the events of Doom II.
The Importance of Doom 1 in the Doom Canon
Doom 1 is significant in the Doom canon for several reasons:
- Establishing the franchise’s foundation: Doom 1 laid the groundwork for the franchise, introducing key elements such as the protagonist, enemies, and setting.
- Creating the Doomguy mythos: The game establishes the Doomguy’s backstory, which is revisited in subsequent games. The Doomguy is the central character in the Doom universe, and his story is crucial to understanding the franchise’s narrative.
- Influencing future games: Doom 1’s success influenced the development of future Doom games, including Doom II and Doom 3. These games built upon the foundation laid by Doom 1, introducing new mechanics, characters, and storylines while maintaining the franchise’s core identity.
The Question of Non-Canon Material
While Doom 1 is considered canon, other games and media within the franchise may not be as strictly adhered to the canon. [2] For example, games like Doom RPG (2005) and Doom (2008) are often considered non-canon or semi-canon, as they deviate from the core storyline and characters established in Doom 1. This is because these games were developed by different teams or companies, which may have taken creative liberties to adapt the franchise to their vision.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Doom 1 is considered canon within the Doom franchise, as it established the foundation for the series and introduced key characters and story elements. Its influence can be seen throughout the franchise, from Doom II to Doom Eternal, and its significance in shaping the Doom canon cannot be overstated. While there may be non-canon material within the franchise, Doom 1 remains an integral part of the Doom universe, cementing its place as a classic in the world of gaming.
References:
[1] Doom Wiki, "Doom (1993)"
[2] IGN, "Doom Canon: What’s Canonical and What’s Not"