DOOM (1993) – How to Play the First Public Release

How to Play the First Public Release of DOOM

Note: Credit goes to biffe

In celebration of DOOM’s 30th Anniversary, I’ve prepared a guide for you to experience the original 1.0 public release of DOOM. Please note that this is a shareware version. I believe the first registered copy of DOOM was released in version 1.1.

To play the 1.0 shareware release of DOOM, you’ll need a DOS-based computer like Windows 95 or DOS itself. However, you can also use DOSBOX, which is what I’ll be demonstrating in this guide, as not everyone has access to a vintage 486 computer.

Getting the 1.0 Shareware Installer

1. Visit the following link:

https://www.doomworld.com/idgames/historic/doom1_0

2. Download the 1.0 shareware release.
3. Ensure that you have DOSBOX installed and that you’re familiar with its operation.
4. Once you’ve set up everything:
5. Extract the doom1_0.zip file to a folder named doom1_0 on your C drive.

DOSBOX Help

6. Launch DOSBOX.
7. At the prompt, type: mount c: c:/
8. Then type: C:
9. Navigate to the DOOM directory by typing: cd doom1_0
10. Start the installation process by typing install and pressing enter. Follow the instructions provided by the installer.

Play DOOM

11. Set up any sound or controls you might prefer (I recommend using Sound Blaster).
12. Finally, run DOOM.