Lecture Notes on MyHouse.wad Tribute Map for Doom 2

Introduction

• Topic: Tribute map for Doom 2 titled MyHouse.wad
• Lecturer: Unnamed speaker
• Inspiration: Created by a Doom World user, veg, in memory of his friend Tom
• Medium: Doom Map discovered on a 3.5-inch floppy disk
• Tribute: Modded with Doom Builder, includes modern conveniences

Map Details

• File Format: MyHouse.pk3 (Doom maps and mods format)
• File Size: 66 Megabytes (Larger than Doom 1 and 2 combined)
• Runtime: 10-minute initial gameplay
• Required Software: GZDoom (enhanced open-source port of Doom)
• Download Link: Available on Doom World post

Gameplay Walkthrough

Initial Observations

• Difficulty Selected: Ultra-violence
• Environment: Wooden walls, spacious yard, front porch, large garage
• Primary Objectives: Gather keys (yellow, red, blue)

Key Areas and Features

• Living Room: TV, PlayStation 1 (DoomCute term: real-life objects in Doom engine)
• Kitchen: Fully equipped
• Bedrooms: One with extra storage, another with an ensuite bathroom
• Upstairs: Regular bathroom and utility room (red key door)
• Game Room: Demon-populated
• Boiler Room: Leads to garage

Unexpected Elements and Advanced Features

• Room on Top of Room: Achieved through GZDoom enhancements
• Key Card Locations: Yellow in ensuite bathroom, red in another bathroom, blue in utility room
• Mirrors and Otherworldly Elements: Functional mirrors, layout changes after events

Challenges

• Scarcity of Equipment: Need to conserve ammo
• Demon Encounters: Strategic fighting required
• Music Resets: Indicates a change in map orientation

Exploration Themes

• Home Memory Simulation: Recreation of author's house, adds nostalgia
• Impossible Architecture: Features defy traditional Doom engine limitations
• Liminal Spaces: Inspired by House of Leaves, creates uneasy atmosphere
• Layers of Reality: Transition between mirrored and original versions of the house

Hidden Elements and Secret Features

Mirrors and Hidden Passages

• Bathroom Mirror: Portal to mirrored world
• Attic Mirror: Covered, reveals hidden bauble
• Mirrored House: Inverted architecture, reversed audio
• Exploration of Mazes: Vertigo-inducing layouts

Items and Memories

• Collected Items: Base narrative (baseball, Crayons, wedding ring, baby bottle, etc)
• Emotional Resonance: Each item potentially linked to author's personal memories
• Hospital Scene: Reflects possible trauma
• Various Environments: Airport, Bathhouse, Daycare, Gas Station

Conclusion and Broader Implications

• Game Ending: Peaceful beach after defeating final challenges
• Emotional Undertones: Tribute to author’s friend intertwined with deeper, personal exploration
• Dedication to Modding Community: Emphasizes the enduring nature of Doom modding
• Overall Experience: Mix of traditional Doom gameplay with intricate storytelling and emotional depth