Hell map

The Hell map is a style of thematic level design centered around hellish landscapes. It makes heavy use of Satanic imagery and a palette of red colors, evoking a sense of dread and impending doom. Hell maps can either be designed around exteriors or interiors, or a combination of both, usually focusing on abstract layouts and surrealistic environments, sometimes meshing body horror elements with minor sci-fi features. Hellish structures also include gothic architecture, such as castles or unholy cathedrals, surrounded by infernal mountains.

Hell maps are one of Doom's main level design themes, standing as a prime example of the original maps introduced in Inferno. The Shores of Hell also includes a variety of Hell maps, but mostly done in conjunction with the techbase map style, in a way that is commonly described as "Hell corrupted".

Doom 64 consists primarily of maps in this genre, beginning with and spanning to the end of the game.

This style of mapping is diverse, and it is commonly combined with other styles of mapping to create unique settings. The E4 styled level design is a partial subtrope of the Hell map.

Designs found in Hell maps

 * Brick structures
 * Red mountains or skies
 * Abstract geometry
 * Cavern systems
 * Granite textures
 * Flesh textures
 * Lava lakes
 * Blood lakes
 * Tortured humans
 * Corpses
 * Graves
 * Pentagrams
 * Altars
 * Crosses
 * Religious symbols
 * Satanic and demonic imagery
 * Fire pits

Notable maps

 * E3M1: Hell Keep (Doom)
 * MAP29: The Living End (Doom II)
 * MAP23: Unholy Temple (Doom 64)
 * MAP28: Sacrificial Grounds (Whispers of Satan)
 * MAP01: On Hell's Horizon (Hellcore)
 * MAP05: Crimson Canyon (Crimson Canyon)
 * MAP21: Imperishable (Eviternity)
 * MAP02: Torture Chamber (Deus Vult)

WADs that feature multiple Hell maps

 * Whispers of Satan
 * Eviternity
 * Hellscape
 * Crimson Canyon
 * Doom 2 the Way id Did
 * No End In Sight
 * Deus Vult
 * Hellfire
 * Hellbound
 * Resurgence
 * 2002 A Doom Odyssey