DOOM Will Not Have Microtransactions

DOOM is one of the most influential and iconic video games ever devised. ID Software’s classic first-person-shooter popularized the genre and showcased the potential of engrossing single player games on modern hardware. While Wolfenstein 3D set a fantastic framework, it didn’t have the same impact as DOOM or capture people’s imaginations. Despite DOOM’s age, it’s still holds up remarkably well and I could easily play through the entire game multiple times. Recently, I purchased the DOOM 3 BFG edition which includes all the content from the older titles, and is a great package. One strange change revolves around the medpacks now sporting a pill icon instead of the red cross. Perhaps, this is down to some copyright issued with the charity, British Red Cross.

After a long hiatus, DOOM is finally coming back, and I cannot wait to see if it honours the series’ roots. Honestly, I’m pretty hopeful because the recent Wolfenstein reboot adopted a fantastic old school feel and fast paced gameplay. It’s absolutely stunning and demonstrates that single-player focussed first-person-shooters can be released in the modern era. Sadly, modern games tend to be marred by microtransactions, season passes, DLC, and other measures designed to maximize profit. However, according to Peter Hines, vice president of marketing at Bethesda, the game will not feature any microtransactions:

This is wonderful news and reassures players that the multiplayer aspect will remain completely balanced. This is essential because various micropayments to acquire items can destroy a multiplayer community and make the progression system seem very unfair. Also, the single player aspect should have good pacing and not slowed down to encourage users to purchase items. Not so long ago, Bethesda unveiled a teaser trailer showing DOOM’s campaign. So far it looks stunning and it’s certainly going to be a day one purchase for myself!