Lords of DOOM: How Two Guys Created the Iconic Shooter and Rocked the Video Game Industry. Lords of DOOM is celebrated as one of the finest and most exhilarating books in gaming literature. Despite being over 20 years old, it remains as captivating as ever. By the time you’ve read through the first 50 pages, you might find yourself thinking, “I wish this story were adapted into a TV series or movie!”

Written by David Kushner, the book focuses on the real rock stars of the gaming industry, John Carmack and John Romero¹. It chronicles their extraordinary journey from founding the renowned game studio id Software to creating the groundbreaking shooter DOOM². The narrative not only highlights their rise to fame and fortune but also provides an in-depth look at their personal lives and the development of the game.

Kushner’s approach is far from a mundane, Wikipedia-style recounting of events. Instead, it is a dynamic exploration of Carmack and Romero’s lives and careers. The author dedicated five years to gathering sources, conducting interviews, and delving into the first decade of id Software’s existence. This thorough research is evident in the book’s rich and engaging content.

The success of Lords of DOOM lies in its compelling and varied narrative. Kushner skillfully alternates between everyday anecdotes, vivid artistic inclusions with lively dialogues (sometimes including colorful language), and a meticulous examination of game development. This blend creates an immersive experience for readers, making them feel as though they were part of the team at id Software, personally acquainted with Carmack and Romero, and involved in the creation of DOOM.

Overall, Lords of DOOM is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of video games, offering a gripping look at the pioneers behind one of the most influential games of all time.

Footnotes

1. John Carmack and John Romero – Co-founders of id Software, known for their revolutionary work in the video game industry, particularly with games like DOOM and Quake. ↩
2. DOOM – A landmark first-person shooter released in 1993 that set new standards for the genre with its immersive gameplay and technological advancements. ↩