The author created a Doom source port that operates within a PDF file by leveraging Emscripten to compile C to asm.js, enabling basic gameplay through a text field-based display in Chromium-based browsers using the PDFium engine.
PDFium engine, asm.js, Emscripten
2025-01-13
- Website
Highlight 1
Unique Concept - The integration of a classic game like Doom inside a PDF file is highly creative and an impressive technical achievement.
Highlight 2
Playability - Despite being a PDF, the game runs at a reasonably smooth 80ms per frame with functional keyboard inputs, making it surprisingly playable for such a limited medium.
Highlight 3
Technical Innovation - Using Emscripten and asm.js to create a source port that runs within the constraints of a PDF engine demonstrates strong engineering and problem-solving skills.
Improvement 1
Compatibility - The app currently only runs in Chromium-based browsers using the PDFium engine, limiting its reach. Expanding browser compatibility would increase its accessibility.
Improvement 2
Visual Limitations - The 6-color monochrome display, while innovative, could be limiting for users expecting a more graphical experience. Offering an option to improve or customize the display would enhance user experience.
Improvement 3
User Instructions - A more detailed user guide or instructions on how to play DoomPDF, especially for those unfamiliar with PDF-based games, would improve the user experience.
Product Functionality
Consider expanding compatibility to include more browsers, such as Firefox and Safari, to increase user accessibility.
UI & UX
Improving the visual display, potentially allowing users to customize the color scheme or resolution, would enhance the user experience.
SEO or Marketing
Marketing the product as a fun, retro tech experiment could attract niche audiences, especially those interested in unusual applications and retro gaming.
MultiLanguage Support
Adding multi-language support for the game's interface and instructions could make it accessible to a broader, international audience.
- 1
Can I play DoomPDF on all browsers?
DoomPDF only works in Chromium-based browsers that use the PDFium engine, such as Google Chrome. It may not work in other browsers.
- 2
What system requirements are needed to play DoomPDF?
The game requires a modern browser that supports the PDFium engine, such as a Chromium-based browser, and a device capable of running a PDF with interactive elements.
- 3
How can I control Doom in the PDF?
You can control Doom in the PDF using the keyboard, with standard controls similar to the original game (WASD for movement, and other keys for actions).