Welcome, fellow speedrunners and gaming enthusiasts, to GamingSpeedrun.com! Today, we're diving deep into one of gaming's most enduring legends: DOOM. You might think you know DOOM, but have you ever considered its incredible portability? It's a well-known fact within the community that if a device has a screen and some form of processing power, someone, somewhere, has figured out how to run DOOM on it. From the humble calculator to a sophisticated digital piano, and even, bizarrely, a pregnancy test, DOOM's presence knows no bounds. In this post, we're exploring a mind-boggling collection of unusual devices that have hosted the iconic demon-slaying simulator.
Table of Contents
What is DOOM on Anything?
The phenomenon of running DOOM on non-traditional hardware, often referred to as "DOOM on Everything," is a testament to the game's enduring legacy and the ingenuity of the gaming community. It's not just about playing the game; it's about pushing the boundaries of what's considered possible. This trend highlights the elegance of DOOM's original engine and the relentless creativity of players who seek to run it on the most unexpected platforms.
The Ultimate Portability Challenge
At its core, this is the ultimate speedrun challenge, albeit in a different form. Instead of optimizing routes and mastering glitches within the game's original confines, the challenge shifts to the hardware itself. Can you port the engine? Can you overcome the limitations of a device not designed for gaming? It's a fascinating sub-genre that celebrates hacking, reverse-engineering, and sheer willpower.
"The beauty of DOOM is that its source code was released. This, combined with its relatively simple architecture for its time, made it a prime candidate for porting."
Iconic Examples That Blew Our Minds
The list of devices running DOOM is extensive and constantly growing. We've seen it on:
- Calculators: Yes, graphing calculators have been harnessed to run DOOM, often with surprisingly playable frame rates.
- Digital Pianos: Imagine playing through Phobos while hitting actual keys on a piano. It's a reality for some dedicated musicians and gamers.
- Smart Refrigerators: Some high-end smart fridges have become gaming consoles, albeit temporarily.
- Apple Watches: Proving that even the smallest screens can host the chaos of Mars.
- Pregnancy Tests: Perhaps the most bizarre example, demonstrating that if a screen can display a result, it can potentially display a Hell Knight.
- LEGO Devices: Modders have even built functional LEGO machines capable of running DOOM.
The Community Behind the Mayhem
This entire movement is driven by incredible online communities. The subreddit r/ItRunsDOOM is a central hub where users share their discoveries, showcase their projects, and offer technical advice. It's a collaborative space where people push the boundaries together. The dedication to sharing knowledge and celebrating these unique achievements is what makes this corner of the gaming world so special.
"Every time I see a new device running DOOM, I'm reminded of the sheer, unadulterated passion of gamers and programmers."
It's not just about individual efforts; it's a collective celebration of a classic game. Many of these ports and discoveries are meticulously documented on pages like the "It Runs DOOM!" website, which acts as an archive of these incredible feats. For those who want to see it all in action, curated playlists on YouTube, such as the excellent "Doom on EVERYTHING" compilation, offer a visual feast of these hardware hacks.
Why Does This Keep Happening?
Several factors contribute to DOOM's unparalleled ability to be "ported":
- Open Source: The release of DOOM's source code was a game-changer, allowing developers to adapt and modify the engine freely.
- Engine Elegance: The original id Tech 1 engine is remarkably efficient and relatively simple to understand for its complexity.
- Community Passion: A dedicated fanbase continues to explore its possibilities decades later.
- Hardware Hacking Culture: The rise of accessible microcontrollers and custom hardware makes experimenting easier than ever.
"It’s become a rite of passage for many programmers and hardware enthusiasts. If you want to prove your skills, get DOOM running on something insane."
This ongoing trend isn't just a novelty; it's a cultural phenomenon that keeps DOOM relevant and demonstrates the timeless appeal of groundbreaking PC titles. It’s a testament to how open access and community can extend the life and impact of a game far beyond its original release.
How Can You Learn More?
If you're as fascinated as we are, the best place to start is by exploring the resources that fuel this movement:
- Dive into the r/ItRunsDOOM subreddit for the latest discoveries and discussions.
- Check out the curated videos on YouTube, like the "Doom on EVERYTHING" playlist.
- Explore the It Runs DOOM! (page) for comprehensive lists and details.
The world of speedrunning and game modification is always evolving, and DOOM continues to be a central figure in these discussions. What's the next impossible device that will run DOOM? Only time will tell, but we'll be here to cover it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can any version of DOOM be run on these devices?
While the original DOOM (1993) and its various source ports are the most common, people have even managed to get more modern iterations like DOOM Eternal running on highly specialized hardware, though this is significantly more complex.
Is it legal to run DOOM on custom hardware?
Generally, yes. The original DOOM's source code was released under a license that allows for modification and distribution, provided certain conditions are met. The game assets (graphics, sound) are still owned by id Software/Bethesda, but running the engine on new hardware for personal exploration or demonstration is widely accepted.
What are the technical challenges involved?
Challenges include limited processing power, lack of memory, incompatible input methods, and the need to port the graphics and audio rendering to the specific hardware's capabilities. Often, the game needs to be heavily optimized or run at very low resolutions and frame rates.
What is the most common "non-traditional" device people run DOOM on?
Historically, calculators and older embedded systems were popular. More recently, the trend has seen devices with small screens like smartwatches and digital displays becoming frequent targets.
Where can I find guides on how to port DOOM myself?
The r/ItRunsDOOM subreddit and various programming forums are excellent places to start. Many successful porting projects have detailed write-ups or even open-source code available.
The sheer audacity and technical prowess displayed in getting DOOM to run on everything from a calculator to a tractor is truly awe-inspiring. It’s a community-driven phenomenon that celebrates the enduring spirit of a legendary game and the boundless creativity of its players. Keep exploring, keep pushing limits, and let us know in the comments: what's the craziest device you've seen DOOM run on?
Join our Discord channel to discuss your own hardware hacking projects and connect with fellow speedrunners!