“But Can It Run Doom?” Book Launches on Kickstarter With E-Book Starting at $8
The legendary question “But can it run Doom?” is getting its own book, and fans of gaming history, retro tech, and the endlessly creative Doom community now have a new collector’s item to watch.
The upcoming book, titled “But Can It Run Doom?”, is currently being funded through Kickstarter. It explores the long-running internet phenomenon of getting the classic first-person shooter Doom to run on unexpected devices, a trend that has become one of gaming’s most recognizable jokes and technical challenges.
For readers who want the digital version, the Kickstarter e-book edition starts at $8. It will be delivered DRM-free in both PDF and ePub formats, with delivery planned for January 2027. That makes it the most affordable way to own the book while supporting the project during its crowdfunding campaign.
Physical editions are also available for collectors. The printed softcover version is priced at $15 and includes the e-book as part of the package. Delivery for the softcover is expected in March 2027.
For fans who want the premium version, the hardcover Ultimate Edition is available for $30. This edition also includes the e-book, but it is scheduled to arrive later, with delivery expected in April 2027. The Ultimate Edition is larger than the standard version, measuring 23 x 15 cm compared to the softcover’s 18 x 13 cm format.
The hardcover edition also includes more content, expanding the book from 168 pages to 224 pages. That extra material may make it especially appealing to longtime Doom fans and readers interested in the people behind the franchise.
One of the biggest highlights is the inclusion of interviews with key figures connected to Doom’s legacy. The bonus content features Aubrey Hodges, known for composing the soundtrack for Doom on PlayStation and Nintendo 64. The book also includes interviews with Doom co-creator John Romero, as well as John Carmack and Tom Hall, making it a notable release for anyone interested in the history of one of the most influential games ever made.
The project comes from Boss Fight Books, a publisher that has previously funded twelve books through Kickstarter. That track record may give backers some confidence, especially for a niche gaming history release like this. However, as with all crowdfunding campaigns, there is still some risk. Delivery dates can shift, production issues can happen, and final products may occasionally arrive later or differ from early expectations.
Still, “But Can It Run Doom?” looks like a fun and fascinating tribute to one of gaming’s most enduring memes. From pregnancy tests to unusual gadgets and obscure hardware, Doom has become more than just a classic shooter. It has become a benchmark, a joke, a challenge, and a symbol of technical creativity.
For fans of retro gaming, Doom history, game development, and weird tech experiments, this book could be a must-have addition to the shelf.
