deathspores

Deathspores are a fictional biological entity originating from the *Doom* franchise, a series of first-person shooter video games developed by id Software. Introduced in *Doom 3* (2004), deathspores are a parasitic organism that infects and eventually kills their hosts, primarily humans. They are depicted as microscopic, spore-like creatures that spread through the air, entering the body via inhalation or open wounds.

The spores are shown to originate from the HacVirus, a genetically engineered pathogen created by the military research facility known as the HacVirus Lab. Once inside a host, deathspores consume organic matter, causing rapid decomposition and death. Infected individuals exhibit symptoms such as rapid weight loss, organ failure, and eventual skeletal remains, often leaving behind a hollowed-out shell.

In the games, deathspores are a major threat, spreading uncontrollably through the underground city of Bethesda after the HacVirus Lab is breached. They are resistant to conventional weapons and require specialized methods, such as ultraviolet light or high-temperature exposure, to neutralize. The spores also exhibit intelligence, forming swarms that coordinate attacks and adapt to environmental conditions.

Deathspores have since appeared in other media within the *Doom* universe, including *Doom 4* (2016) and *Doom Eternal* (2020), where they continue to pose a significant biological hazard. Their design and behavior reflect themes of biological horror and the dangers of unchecked scientific experimentation. While purely fictional, deathspores serve as a memorable example of sci-fi horror elements in gaming.