PDA

The PDA is an essential item in Doom 3. It acts as an email reader, media player, and security key for restricted areas.

Nearly all other characters have PDAs, from which the player can download emails and audio logs. These files often include security codes needed to open locked doors and storage cabinets. A typical entry reads: "Mr. Sadowayj,

I fear that the rumors I've been hearing might actually be true. The other day someone from my team was cleaning up a toxic spill in Delta and they said they actually saw some sort of creature down there, he didn't know what it was but it really scared him and got us thinking.

We can't be too careful; I've locked some ammunition and combat armor in the cabinet by the monorail airlock door here in Sector 2. If you ever need to get in it the code is: 483"

- Scott Johnson Some messages contain more general clues, such as the description of a newly captured creature (which the player will later fight), or a testy email about an accidental shipment of chainsaws. On the other hand, many simply provide atmosphere and backstory, describing the final days before Hell's portal opened fully: "Audio log for Phil Wilson, medical technician, Delta Labs, October 20th, 2145. Today I witnessed the 3rd test to the teleporter in three weeks that I've been here. Volunteers are becoming harder and harder to come by and heh, it isn't difficult to see why. They all come back screaming like loons about demons, pools of blood, real fire and brimstone stuff.

At first I wasn't paying much attention, just doing my job, but... the last was Robert Clayton. Now I met him my first day here. This guy chews up rocks and spits out gravel, he's tough as they come. Having to sedate him and drag his drooling body to the isolation room has really freaked me out.

I'm going to put in for a transfer as soon as I'm able."

- Phil Wilson id Software's customary humor is also evident: "Dear Chin,

I am writing in regard to the 8 sided die you borrowed from me. If you are not going to invite me to the game, then I would like my 8 sided die back. It has been 2 weeks and I am very irritated."

- Walter Connors

The PDA can also access any video disks found, and occasionally the marine receives emails, security clearance upgrades, or video files directly from other characters or UAC management.