People give this game way too much shit nowadays, no doubt helped by the aftermath of it's disappointing "sequel" that gaslit everyone into thinking that this franchise always sucked.
But this game still rules for at least 3/4ths of it.
Yes, Duke 3D is likely the weakest game in the Build engine trilogy. But it's still a certified keeper. The character, feel, gameplay and just overall 80s late-night action-movie vibe this game has makes it unforgettable all these years later IMO. Episode 2 is easily the worst set of levels, but E1, 3, and ESPECIALLY episode 4 have some of the best levels I've played in a retro shooter, topped off as well by a still-kicking modding community that still puts out quality maps all these years later.
Biggest problem this game suffers from nowadays is just HOW to play it. Despite having a super solid 5th episode, the recent 20th anniversary port from Gearbox leaves a lot to be desired and just isn't a good port at all. Buy it on ZOOM platform (as it has all the official expansions the Gearbox port doesn't have for some reason) and load it up with Eduke32 and some widescreen mods for the best experience. Treat this game in a bubble, removed from all the disappointment that came after, you'll find this game is still a classic for good reason.
But this game still rules for at least 3/4ths of it.
Yes, Duke 3D is likely the weakest game in the Build engine trilogy. But it's still a certified keeper. The character, feel, gameplay and just overall 80s late-night action-movie vibe this game has makes it unforgettable all these years later IMO. Episode 2 is easily the worst set of levels, but E1, 3, and ESPECIALLY episode 4 have some of the best levels I've played in a retro shooter, topped off as well by a still-kicking modding community that still puts out quality maps all these years later.
Biggest problem this game suffers from nowadays is just HOW to play it. Despite having a super solid 5th episode, the recent 20th anniversary port from Gearbox leaves a lot to be desired and just isn't a good port at all. Buy it on ZOOM platform (as it has all the official expansions the Gearbox port doesn't have for some reason) and load it up with Eduke32 and some widescreen mods for the best experience. Treat this game in a bubble, removed from all the disappointment that came after, you'll find this game is still a classic for good reason.