Duke Nukem Forever 2001 for Windows

Prototype of the last Duke Nukem game

Duke Nukem Forever 2001 is a free-to-play action experience, also from 3D Realms. Unlike the official 2011 release of Duke Nukem Forever, this is the earlier prototype that captures first-person shooting that was a product of its time. Follow the titular Duke Nukem as he thwarts another alien invasion.

Unlike the linear 2011 release, Duke Nukem Forever 2001 lets you choose the level and the specific segment you want to play. Expect retro visuals, the iconic soundtrack, with themes not suitable for younger audiences such as sexual and violent content. Also, check out Duke Nukem 3D: 20th Anniversary World Tour.

Play as the retro action hero

Duke Nukem Forever is notable as the last game in the franchise, with a rather interesting history. It was set to follow 1996’s Duke Nukem 3D and has seen a long development process before being released in 2011. Duke Nukem Forever 2001 is one of the iterations before the commercially released product and has been freely distributed without public objections even from the developers themselves.

Here you follow Duke Nukem, inspired by the macho action hero stereotype from the 70s and 80s. This FPS pits you against alien invaders across U.S. locations: Las Vegas, the Interstate, and the Hoover Dam. Aside from the cliche action movie theme, it also features a couple of fun mini games like air hockey and pinball. Its hypermasculine character and the humor that comes with the trope make it enjoyable.

As mentioned, it lets you choose the specific level you want to play, including a recreation of a Duke Nukem 3D level. Aside from its dated graphics and stale storyline, mature content makes this game unsuitable for younger players. Like other Duke Nukem games, it also features toilet humor, sexual innuendos, and various depictions of gore. Duke can urinate on toilets or freeze characters and then shatter them.

A game from a bygone era

Duke Nukem Forever 2001 embraced its predecessor's formula but struggled to meet contemporary standards. With its signature humor, strong audio, and nostalgic features, the game fell prey to dated mechanics, inconsistent pacing, and forced humor. Despite its iconic protagonist, Duke Nukem Forever failed to reclaim the throne of its genre, ultimately delivering an experience that, while nostalgic, couldn't compete with the evolving standards of the gaming landscape.