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 dials back the platforming elements of its predecessor in favor of a more grounded, power-focused combat experience. While the signature arsenal returns, enhanced by the skull-crushing new weapon seen in the reveal trailer, the focus shifts to three melee weapons: an electrified gauntlet, a flail, and the Shield Saw. Director Hugo Martin emphasizes a "stand and fight" approach.
The game's design draws inspiration from the original Doom, Frank Miller's Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, and Zack Snyder's 300. The Glory Kill system is revamped, allowing for dynamic executions from any angle, crucial given the increased enemy density reminiscent of 300 and the original Doom. Level design prioritizes freedom, with objectives tackled in any order, and levels adjusted to maintain an approximate one-hour playtime.
Addressing criticism of Doom Eternal's Codex-heavy narrative, The Dark Ages delivers its story through cutscenes, promising a "summer blockbuster" narrative expanding the Doom universe. Gameplay controls have been simplified for improved intuitiveness under pressure, with melee weapons equipped individually. The in-game economy is streamlined to a single currency, and secrets now offer tangible gameplay enhancements rather than solely lore details.
Difficulty is highly customizable, offering sliders for game speed, enemy aggression, and more. Showcased sequences featuring a giant demon mech (the Atlan) and cybernetic dragonback riding are not one-off events, each boasting unique abilities and mini-bosses. Importantly, multiplayer is absent, allowing the team to concentrate on a refined single-player experience.
Martin highlights a deliberate departure from Doom Eternal, aiming for a more classic Doom feel, prioritizing a sense of powerful, yet redefined, player agency. This return to the franchise's roots has generated considerable excitement, with the May 15th release date eagerly anticipated.
