Doom: The Dark Ages – A Return to Roots
Following the critically acclaimed Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal, id Software's next installment, Doom: The Dark Ages, takes a different approach. Instead of building upon Eternal's platforming elements, this prequel focuses on intense, close-quarters combat, emphasizing powerful melee weapons and strategic movement.
While the signature arsenal returns – including the skull-crushing new weapon showcased in the reveal trailer – The Dark Ages significantly enhances the melee experience. Players wield an electrified gauntlet, a flail, and the standout Shield Saw, each offering unique offensive and defensive capabilities. Game director Hugo Martin emphasizes a shift towards "standing and fighting," highlighting the importance of skillful maneuvering and strategic use of these tools.
The game's 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 reminiscent of those iconic works. The Glory Kill system has been redesigned for fluidity, allowing for dynamic finishing moves from any angle, adapting to the constant swarms of enemies. Level design promotes exploration and non-linear progression, with shorter, more focused levels (approximately one hour each).
Addressing feedback on Doom Eternal, The Dark Ages presents its narrative through cutscenes rather than in-game codex entries. The story promises a grand, cinematic experience, expanding the Doom universe and raising the stakes for the Slayer. Control simplification is another key focus, aiming for intuitive gameplay even under pressure. Melee weapons are equipped individually, streamlining combat. A simplified economy with a single currency (gold) rewards exploration and skill progression with tangible gameplay enhancements.
Difficulty customization offers extensive control over various aspects, including game speed and enemy aggression.
Showcased sequences featuring a massive Atlan mech and cybernetic dragon riding are not isolated events but offer unique abilities and challenges. Importantly, The Dark Ages will not include a multiplayer mode, allowing the developers to fully concentrate on crafting a compelling single-player experience.
Martin's vision for The Dark Ages represents a deliberate return to the core principles of the original Doom, prioritizing visceral combat and a powerful, yet streamlined, gameplay experience. This focus on a refined, classic Doom feel is a welcome change, promising a thrilling and nostalgic experience for long-time fans. The game's May 15th release date is highly anticipated.
