This PC mod, released on March 14, 2021, for Doom II: Hell on Earth, offers a significant reimagining of the classic shooter experience. Built upon the foundations of the PSX Doom Total Conversion and Doom 64 Retribution, it leverages the capabilities of modern GZDoom versions to implement features that were technically unfeasible at the time of the original games' releases. The core of this mod lies in its extensive code adaptation, drawing inspiration from GEC Master Edition (DZDoom) and utilizing ZScript for enhanced functionality. This approach aims to bring a greater degree of faithfulness to the original visions while introducing new possibilities.

What is the core experience of this mod?

The mod provides a highly adaptable shooter experience, allowing players to tailor the game to their preferences. At its heart, it remains a classic first-person shooter, demanding quick reflexes and strategic movement. The value proposition lies in its ability to offer a familiar yet significantly enhanced version of the Doom gameplay loop. Players can choose to stay as close to the original aesthetic and feel as possible, or they can opt for a more visually striking and feature-rich presentation.

What makes this game unique?

A key distinguishing feature is its modular design. This allows players to selectively enable or disable a variety of optional "enhancements." These enhancements can range from updated visual elements like upscaled textures and PBR materials to more dynamic gameplay additions such as flashy particle effects. This flexibility means that the mod can cater to a wide spectrum of player tastes, from those seeking a purist experience to those eager to explore more modern graphical and gameplay treatments within the established Doom framework.

Core Gameplay and Features

The gameplay centers around intense, fast-paced combat against demonic hordes, a hallmark of the Doom series. The mod's enhancements aim to deepen this experience without fundamentally altering the core mechanics. Players can expect:

Faithful Implementation: A focus on bringing previously impossible features to life, enhancing the original PSX Doom and Doom 64 Retribution experiences.
Modular Enhancements: The ability to customize the visual and gameplay experience through optional features.
Visual Upgrades: Options for upscaled textures, PBR materials, and advanced particle effects for a more modern presentation.
ZScript Foundation: Built with ZScript, allowing for more complex and refined gameplay mechanics and features.

Atmosphere and Setting

While the specific storyline is not detailed, the mod inherits the dark, sci-fi horror atmosphere characteristic of its parent game. Players are immersed in environments that evoke a sense of dread and urgency, amplified by the mod's potential for enhanced visual fidelity. The focus remains on the visceral thrill of confronting overwhelming odds in hostile, alien landscapes.

Platform and Release Information

This mod is available exclusively for PC (Microsoft Windows) and was released on March 14, 2021.