There’s an argument to be had that all video games are survival games in many respects. Despite the gun-blasting, demon-killing chaos of the likes of Doom 2, you’re still trying to survive in a pixelated world run amok with hellish antagonists. But what if you were to turn the game into something that’s more in-line with the survival genre?
That’s what ModDB user budwieser (yes, it’s really spelled that way) is doing, at least. Taking heavy inspiration from the STALKER series, “Heart of U.A.C.” is an upcoming mod for Doom 2 that takes you away from hell and pits you against the Zone.
The Zone, in this case, has invaded the Union Aerospace Corporation – the Mars-based conglomerate where much of Doom takes place. The mod is described thus:
Countless marines have been invaded and you have to survive here. Get out of safe zone, kill and loot mutant monsters and enemies. Survive by drinking food and water and beware of radiation
Is it even Doom 2 anymore?
Take a look at those screenshots. Honestly, if you had to guess what this game was, you wouldn’t assume it was Doom 2. It definitely looks more like a “demade” take on GSC Game World’s cult STALKER franchise. It really shows what people can do with modding when they have the time, skills, and tools to hand.
“Heart of U.A.C.” doesn’t have a release date yet. However, the mod page does say it’s expected to be released sometime in Q3 of this year, so keep an eye out for that. It will be interesting to see how the fast-paced antics of classic Doom will translate to the much harsher realm of survival horror. I imagine it will fare pretty well.
Speaking of, STALKER 2: Heart of Chornobyl has been doing pretty well for itself. Spending many years in development – with the studio itself getting caught in the midst of the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine – the long-awaited follow-up to 2009’s Call of Pripyat was met with high praise despite the issues it had upon release. So it’s nice to see the series getting a nod from Doom 2, as well.
Published: Jan 11, 2025 08:53 am