Doom: The Dark Ages – A Return to Form?
Following the critically acclaimed Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal (2020), id Software's latest 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 reminiscent of the original Doom, emphasizing powerful melee attacks and strategic strafing.
While the signature arsenal returns, including the skull-crushing new weapon showcased in the reveal trailer, The Dark Ages significantly enhances the melee system. Players wield an electrified gauntlet, a flail, and the standout Shield Saw, each offering unique tactical options for blocking, parrying, and deflecting attacks. Game director Hugo Martin describes the gameplay as "stand and fight," emphasizing power and direct confrontation.
Martin cites inspiration from the original Doom, Frank Miller's Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, and Zack Snyder's 300 as key influences. This is reflected in the game's design, featuring large-scale combat encounters with numerous enemies, similar to the iconic battles depicted in 300. The Glory Kill system has been revamped, allowing for dynamic finishing moves from any angle. Level design prioritizes freedom, allowing players to tackle objectives in any order and explore freely, with levels adjusted to an approximate one-hour playtime.
Addressing criticism of Doom Eternal's Codex-heavy narrative, The Dark Ages presents its story through cutscenes, promising a grand, cinematic experience that expands the Doom universe. The narrative focuses on the Slayer's power and the threats posed by his enemies, promising a "summer blockbuster event."
The control scheme has been streamlined for improved intuitiveness, addressing concerns about Eternal's complexity. Melee weapons are equipped individually, simplifying gameplay. The game features a simplified economy with a single currency (gold), and secrets reward skill progression with tangible gameplay improvements rather than lore details.
The giant Atlan mech and cybernetic dragon riding sequences, showcased in the trailer, are not one-off events but feature unique abilities and mini-bosses. Importantly, The Dark Ages will not include a multiplayer mode, allowing the developers to fully concentrate on the single-player campaign.
Martin emphasizes a deliberate shift away from Doom Eternal's direction, aiming for a more classic Doom experience. He states the goal was to create a different feel, emphasizing the player's power while staying true to the core elements of the original game. This return to fundamentals has generated significant anticipation for the game's May 15th release.
