REVIEW: ‘Doom Guy: Life in First Person’ by John Romero
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The video game DOOM is the reason I’m here today. In the ’90s, my parents bonded over playing as futuristic space Marines, battling virtual demons until the early hours of the morning. They were just two of the millions who experienced the greatness of games like DOOM and Wolfenstein 3-D. Now, in Doom Guy: Life in First Person, John Romero, one of the greatest video game developers in history, unveils the story behind these iconic games.
A Journey of Ingenuity and Grit
Romero takes us on a captivating journey, from his childhood fascination with video games to becoming an expert coder in his early adult life. He shares the “Eureka moments” that led him and his id Software team to create some of the most legendary first-person shooters in gaming history. It’s a tale of ingenuity, determination, and finding the silver lining in challenging situations, driving the culture and pioneering one of the world’s most popular industries.
A Code of Life
Romero’s nearly 400-page autobiography reads like a well-crafted piece of computer code, with each event building upon the next. We learn about his upbringing as the child of an alcoholic father, finding solace in artistic pursuits. His mother’s decision to leave that marriage takes him to California, where he discovers games like Space Invaders and Pac-Man. Living in the Golden State brings him closer to universities at the forefront of gaming research. His mother’s second marriage to a military man teaches him the grit necessary to break into the video game industry and design classics like DOOM and Wolfenstein 3-D.
The Birth of id Software
The pinnacle of Romero’s story lies in the birth of id Software. He vividly captures the triumphs of his team members, particularly the innovative coding skills of John Carmack. Their journey from being a game development division of Softdisk to establishing their own company is filled with memorable moments. One such instance is Carmack’s groundbreaking discovery for side-scrolling video games, which paved the way for the creation of Commander Keen, the precursor to Wolfenstein 3-D and DOOM. Romero masterfully conveys the significance of these advancements, making them accessible to readers unfamiliar with coding and game development.
The Magic Behind the Scenes
Romero shares endearing anecdotes that reveal the magic behind the creation of iconic elements in DOOM. From the iconic cover art to the unintentional transformation of Romero himself into the game’s protagonist, Doomguy, these stories showcase the passion and creativity that went into crafting these unforgettable experiences.
Lessons Learned and Imperfections Embraced
While the development of id Software’s games was not without its challenges, Romero doesn’t shy away from discussing the mistakes made and the lessons learned. He also reflects on the conflicts he had with Carmack, leading to his departure from id Software. It’s a mature exploration of imperfect individuals, including Romero himself.
A Bittersweet Ending
The book concludes with Romero’s less successful ventures after leaving id Software. He briefly addresses the association of DOOM with the Columbine shooting, expressing horror at the tragedy and refuting claims that the game was responsible. However, the limited attention given to this notable event feels somewhat jarring. The final chapter sees Romero releasing SIGIL, an unofficial new chapter to the original DOOM, which diverges from the game’s original creative sci-fi elements.
Despite its flaws, this is a quintessential American story of a man rising from humble beginnings to shape an industry that brings joy to countless people. Romero’s contributions have made video games a mainstream part of popular culture. Thanks to him, couples can still enjoy slaying demons on Mars and in Hell during their dates. I owe him a debt of gratitude.
Doom Guy: Life in First Person by John Romero Harry N. Abrams, 384 pp., $30
Charles Hilu is a Collegiate Network fellow at the Washington Free Beacon.
How does John Romero address the controversies and moral panic surrounding violence and graphic content in video games like DOOM in “Doom Guy: Life in First Person”?
Sible and engaging to both gaming enthusiasts and casual readers.
The Cultural Impact
Romero also delves into the cultural impact of games like DOOM, shedding light on the controversies and moral panic surrounding the violence and graphic content. He addresses the misconceptions and controversies head-on, providing a balanced perspective on the role of video games in society. Romero’s personal experiences and insights offer readers a unique vantage point from which to analyze the ongoing discussions around video game violence and its effects on players.
A Tribute to the Fans
Throughout the book, Romero celebrates the passionate fanbase that made DOOM and Wolfenstein 3-D into cultural phenomena. He acknowledges the dedication and creativity of modders and level designers who extended the life of the games long after their initial release. Romero’s appreciation for the community that grew around his creations is evident, and his anecdotes about fan interactions and events demonstrate the reciprocal relationship between developers and players.
The Legacy Continues
In the final chapters, Romero reflects on his experiences since leaving id Software and his ongoing contributions to the gaming industry. He discusses his involvement in new projects, such as the critically acclaimed Daikatana, as well as his endeavors in education and mentoring the next generation of game developers. Through his personal stories and insights, Romero imparts valuable wisdom and lessons learned after decades in the industry.
Final Thoughts
Doom Guy: Life in First Person is a captivating and well-written autobiography that not only provides an intimate look into the creation of iconic games but also offers a window into the growth and evolution of the gaming industry. John Romero’s storytelling skills and genuine passion shine through in every page, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history of gaming or the creative process behind video game development. It serves as a reminder that oftentimes, the experiences we have with virtual worlds can shape and inspire our own lives in unexpected and meaningful ways.
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