I’ve had quite a nostalgia trip running the past few weeks. I decided to revisit the first game I ever played, Doom. Along the way I’ve been making attempts at level editing – something I hadn’t tried since I was a teenager. Fortunately for myself, I finally figured out how to make a door after all these years.
I started without any ideas or plans. I began creating rooms and hallways, and decided to see where it took me. The result was a classically-inspired Doom level without the need for jumping and free-look, something modern source ports provide. The goal was just simple designs with some tricks and traps. I also really enjoyed the idea of a more-restricted set of textures and enemies compared to Doom II. The last guiding principles were taken from John Romero when talking about the design of E1M1.
The inside of this structure sure is dark. I forgot to mention that I wanted to attempt an atmospheric setting with the use of subtle light changes. I probably still need to increase the overall sector light level, though.
This next gif showcases my spooky tunnel attempt.
I suppose that about sums it up. I’ve managed to infuriate one friend over the level, and it won’t be the last. I’ll end with the following slideshow of screenshots and gameplay footage I took from the level.
Lab 359 