With the release of the highly-anticipated DOOM Eternal just around the corner, fans are also excited for the Steam launch of DOOM 64, which was originally released in 1997 for the Nintendo 64. The title, originally developed by Midway, is being ported to PC by Nightdive Studios, and it would appear that it will include some additional content as well as the ability to perform above 1000 fps.
During a recent interview with USgamer, members of the Nightdive Studios team sat down to discuss the upcoming port of DOOM 64. Senior developer James Haley noted how players will be able to unlock a new chapter that takes place after the title’s original campaign. “On our end, persistent players will have the opportunity to unlock a new chapter in the Doomguy’s saga, taking place shortly after [Doom 64’s] original campaign concludes,” Haley said. “The Mother Demon you defeated in that outing had a sister, and since you’ve been messing up Hell non-stop, she tries to get rid of you by sending you away. If you can make your way back and take revenge, you’ll be rewarded with a bit of lore that fans of both series, new and classic, should enjoy.”
Quality assurance lead Leo Mikkola then noted how DOOM 64 feels a lot like DOOM, but there are some “key differences” when it comes to comparing it with the older entries. “I don’t think the game necessarily becomes easier with modernized controls for keyboard and mouse—it becomes more accessible,” Mikkola said. “The learning curve is lower compared to the Nintendo 64 version though, as movement feels more fluid overall and there’s a distinct reduction of input lag in our version, which makes the game feel more fair.”
As for how DOOM 64 will run on PC, it would seem that we will be seeing the game in a whole new light. After all, today’s PCs are far more powerful than the Nintendo 64, so it would only make sense to take advantage of the technology available today. Lead engine developer Samuel Villarreal also mentioned how players will be able to achieve incredible framerates in the upcoming port. “The game is also capable of supporting frame rates for monitors beyond 60Hz, meaning you can choose to run the game at 120 FPS or even above 1000 FPS,” Villarreal said. “Everything is now interpolated to run as silky smooth as possible.”
DOOM 64 is set to release on March 20th alongside DOOM Eternal for Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. The port is a pre-order bonus for DOOM Eternal, but can also be purchased as a standalone product for $4.99. For a taste of what hellish destruction awaits in DOOM 64, here’s more:
“Fight against demons in your crusade to hunt down the Mother of Demons and stop Hell’s invasion. As you battle through more than 30 action-packed levels, be on the lookout for enhanced weapons and secrets to help you put an end to the demonic threat.”
