Few games have changed gaming as much as the original Doom did. The game opened up the world of pulse-pounding first-person action to a huge audience, and it also helped establish multiplayer play, thanks to its network multiplayer deathmatch options. The series' creator, id Software, seems to have every expectation that Doom III will make just as indelible a mark on gaming, in large part because of the incredibly high-definition visuals and dramatic real-time shadows made possible by the developer's latest 3D technology. But while the technology and game design have long been complete, the pressure is on for id's 18-person team to finish the game this year and deliver the sort of deep, atmospheric single-player experience we've only seen hints of in the game's few public appearances over the last two years.
Doom III won't have a major presence at next month's E3, but there will be a new trailer at the show. Fortunately, you don't have to wait until the convention doors open on May 14 to finally get some real news on the game, because we managed to track down id's lead designer, Tim Willits, to discuss this highly anticipated game. Read on for the first details on Doom III's multiplayer, an account of a recent memorable single-player experience, and his explanation of why Doom III really will live up to fans' high expectations.
View: Doom III Interview @ GameSpot
