Review: Masters of Doom Audiobook
Product
Title: Masters of Doom: How Two Guys Created an Empire and Transformed Pop Culture
Author: David Kushner
Narrator: Wil Wheaton
Listening Length: 12 hrs and 43 mins
Company
Publisher: Novel Audio
Release Date: July 12, 2012
Program Type: Audiobook
Version: Unabridged
Language: English
Narrator/Read By
Narrator: Wil Wheaton
Wil Wheaton’s narration of Masters of Doom brings an energetic and captivating performance that complements the vibrant storytelling of David Kushner. Wheaton’s lively voice and engaging style make this audiobook a thrilling listen, effectively capturing the dynamic and often tumultuous relationship between John Carmack and John Romero.
Summary
Masters of Doom: How Two Guys Created an Empire and Transformed Pop Culture, written by David Kushner and narrated by Wil Wheaton, is a riveting account of the rise of id Software and its iconic founders, John Carmack, and John Romero. This book chronicles their journey from humble beginnings to becoming pioneers in the video game industry with groundbreaking games like Doom and Quake.
Kushner delves into the contrasting personalities of the two Johns—Carmack, the introverted programming genius, and Romero, the charismatic game designer. Their collaboration revolutionized the gaming world but also led to intense conflicts and eventual separation. The narrative captures the excitement, creativity, and drama that defined their partnership and the birth of the first-person shooter genre.
The book also explores the broader impact of their work on popular culture and the controversies they sparked. From their innovative use of technology to the creation of a gaming empire, Masters of Doom is a compelling story of ambition, creativity, and the highs and lows of the video game industry.
Pre-order Price at the Time of Review
The audiobook is available on Audible for purchase. Pricing may vary based on membership status and promotions.
Features
- In-Depth Biography: Offers a detailed look at the lives and careers of John Carmack and John Romero.
- Balanced Perspective: Presents a nuanced view of the successes and challenges faced by the founders of id Software.
- Historical Context: Provides insights into the early days of the video game industry and the technological advancements that shaped it.
- Engaging Narration: Wil Wheaton’s performance brings the story to life, making it an immersive and enjoyable listen.
About the Author
David Kushner is an accomplished author and journalist known for his works on technology, culture, and the video game industry. His meticulous research and engaging writing style have earned him recognition and acclaim.
Publisher
Novel Audio is a respected audiobook publisher known for producing high-quality recordings across various genres.
The Good
- Compelling Storytelling: Kushner’s narrative is engaging and fast-paced, making the history of id Software an exciting read.
- Thorough Research: The book is meticulously researched, providing a detailed account of the key moments in the company’s history.
- Narration: Wil Wheaton’s energetic narration enhances the listening experience, adding depth and personality to the story.
- Historical Insights: Offers a fascinating look into the early days of the video game industry and the cultural impact of id Software’s games.
The Bad
- Length: At nearly 13 hours, the audiobook may feel lengthy for some listeners, though the engaging content helps mitigate this.
- Personal Bias: Some listeners might find the author’s personal opinions and interpretations woven into the narrative.
Details at a Glance
- Listening Length: 12 hours and 43 minutes
- Author: David Kushner
- Narrator: Wil Wheaton
- Release Date: July 12, 2012
- Publisher: Novel Audio
- Program Type: Audiobook
- Version: Unabridged
- Language: English
Overall Rating
Rating: 4.7/5
Masters of Doom is a masterfully crafted biography that captures the essence of the video game industry’s formative years. David Kushner’s detailed research and engaging storytelling, combined with Wil Wheaton’s dynamic narration, make this audiobook a must-listen for gaming enthusiasts and those interested in the history of digital entertainment.
The book’s exploration of the creative process, technological innovation, and the personal dynamics between Carmack and Romero provides a comprehensive and captivating account of how two visionaries transformed pop culture. Despite its length, the audiobook’s rich content and lively narration ensure a rewarding listening experience.