Doom: The Dark Ages – A Return to Brutal Roots

Following the critically acclaimed Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal (2020), id Software is shifting gears with Doom: The Dark Ages, a prequel that prioritizes intense, close-quarters combat reminiscent of the original Doom. While the iconic arsenal returns, including the skull-crushing new weapon showcased in the reveal trailer, the focus is on powerful melee combat utilizing an electrified gauntlet, a flail, and the versatile Shield Saw. Game director Hugo Martin describes the gameplay as "stand and fight," emphasizing strategic positioning and raw power.

The Dark Ages' design draws inspiration from the original Doom, Frank Miller's Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, and Zack Snyder's 300. This influence is evident in the intense, large-scale combat encounters where players are frequently surrounded by enemies, similar to the iconic battles depicted in 300. The Glory Kill system has been enhanced, allowing for dynamic finishing moves from any angle. Level design encourages exploration and non-linear progression, with shorter levels (approximately one hour each) designed for focused, intense gameplay.

Addressing player feedback regarding Doom Eternal's complexity, The Dark Ages simplifies controls and streamlines the experience. The story unfolds through cutscenes rather than in-game codex entries, promising a cinematic narrative that expands the Doom universe. The game features a simplified economy with a single currency (gold), and secrets reward skill progression with tangible gameplay enhancements. Difficulty is highly customizable, allowing players to fine-tune various aspects of the challenge.

Showcased in the trailer, the giant Atlan mech and cybernetic dragonback riding sequences are not isolated events but offer unique gameplay experiences with their own abilities and mini-bosses. Importantly, The Dark Ages will not include a multiplayer mode, allowing the development team to fully concentrate on creating a compelling single-player campaign. Martin emphasizes a return to the core principles of the original Doom, aiming for a powerful and visceral experience that feels distinctly different from Doom Eternal. The game's release on May 15th is highly anticipated.