I have spent over three decades immersed in the world of Doom and its numerous derivatives, so when I say that End of Starchild, a free standalone game crafted by the talented musician and indie developer Em Essex, stands out as one of the most remarkable creations built on Doom’s enduring framework, I do so with conviction. This game is a must-play.
Gameplay Experience
Another title worth your time is Time Tripper, which takes the essence of Doom and transforms it into a sleek, high-octane bullet hell arcade experience. Comprising six exhilarating levels, players navigate through intricately designed eldritch landscapes at breakneck speeds—faster than Doomguy’s iconic 60mph sprint. The gameplay is further enhanced by a diverse array of new enemies that unleash a barrage of neon bullets, requiring players to deftly maneuver through the chaos. Each enemy drops single-use consumable sub-weapons, introducing an element of improvisation to the fast-paced action.
Each map in End of Starchild is a unique experience, boasting its own aesthetic, pacing, and rhythm. From the cozy yet eerie atmosphere of a cult library complex to a vibrant, psychedelic rave arena filled with frenetic battle chatter, players are treated to a visual feast. The game features beautifully animated title cards for each level, with names like “Her Warm Words In Winter” adding an intriguing layer to the experience. After each level, players return to their protagonist’s urban apartment, which gradually fills with unlockable decor and unsettling yet poetic letters that add depth to the narrative.
The weaponry in End of Starchild is familiar yet delivers a more impactful experience than its original counterparts. The shotgun feels powerful, while the machine gun inflicts greater damage when the trigger is held down. Rockets explode in a dramatic skull-shaped cloud, reminiscent of classic shoot ’em ups, adding to the game’s flair.
Exploration is a key component of the gameplay, with secrets hidden throughout the levels, including a challenging optional super-boss. The absence of a save system heightens the tension; players must rely on their knowledge and experience to recover after a death. This adds a layer of strategy, making health potions and items that enhance escape chances valuable investments early on.
Completing all aspects of End of Starchild took me approximately 15 hours, and it has already secured a spot on my shortlist for the 2026 Game of the Year. While its scope may be smaller compared to other Doom campaigns, the intricate design provides a rich texture that rivals my top pick for 2023, Void Stranger. Just when you think you’ve uncovered all its secrets, the game surprises you with new depths to explore.
Even for those who may not be avid fans of Doom, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this game a try. For those who find the challenge daunting, don’t hesitate to adjust the difficulty to Easy mode or utilize the Accessibility options. It’s a tough but rewarding experience.
Lastly, a word of caution: some overly aggressive virus scanners may flag the game as containing a trojan. After thorough testing across various heuristics, it appears this is a false positive, so players can proceed with confidence.
