This PC title, released in 2024, is a mod for the classic shooter Doom II: Hell on Earth. It presents a collection of seven maps designed around the concept of liminal spaces, offering a distinct atmospheric experience. The mod aims for a more elaborate and ambitious scope than its predecessor, with each map featuring a unique atmosphere and purpose.

The core experience emphasizes a blend of high-energy combat and quieter, exploratory moments. Progression is largely non-linear, encouraging players to delve into the environments. Resource management is a key consideration, particularly on higher difficulty settings, adding a layer of strategic challenge.

What is the core gameplay loop?

The gameplay centers on navigating intricately designed maps that evoke the feeling of liminal spaces. Players will encounter varied combat scenarios with deliberate enemy placement, requiring adaptation to different encounter types. The emphasis on exploration means players are encouraged to discover pathways and secrets within the environments, often with limited resources available, especially when playing on the UV (Ultraviolence) difficulty.

What makes this mod unique?

The primary distinguishing feature of this mod is its thematic focus on liminal spaces, creating environments that are both familiar and unsettling. This aesthetic choice influences the atmosphere and level design, setting it apart from more conventional shooter experiences. The developers have paid close attention to balancing intense combat sequences with periods of calm and exploration, aiming to provide a varied and engaging progression through its seven maps.

Atmosphere and Setting

The mod's maps are crafted to embody the aesthetic of liminal spaces. This translates into environments that often feel transitional, uncanny, and somewhat deserted, creating a unique mood for the shooter gameplay. The atmosphere is a significant component of the overall experience, aiming to immerse players in these distinct, often surreal, settings.

Gameplay Mechanics and Progression

Combat encounters are designed to be varied, with different enemy compositions and strategic positioning. The progression system is largely non-linear, allowing players freedom in how they approach and complete objectives within each map. A key element, particularly on higher difficulties, is resource starvation, which necessitates careful management of ammunition and health pickups.

Key Features

Seven MBF21 maps with a liminal space theme.
A balance between high-energy combat and exploration.
Non-linear progression with an emphasis on discovery.
Resource management challenges, especially on UV difficulty.
Varied combat encounters and enemy placement.