Doom: The Dark Ages – The First Preview

Doom: The Dark Ages – A Return to Form?

Following the critically acclaimed Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal (2020), 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 reminiscent of the original Doom, drawing inspiration from Frank Miller's Batman: The Dark Knight Returns and 300.

The core gameplay revolves around powerful weaponry, including returning favorites and a new Skull Crusher that uses enemy skulls as ammunition. However, The Dark Ages significantly emphasizes melee combat with three distinct weapons: an electrified gauntlet, a flail, and the Shield Saw. Game director Hugo Martin describes the combat as "stand and fight," emphasizing strategic positioning and power.

The Glory Kill system has been revamped, allowing for fatalities from any angle, adapting to the intense, 300-esque combat encounters where players are constantly surrounded by enemies. Level design prioritizes freedom, allowing players to tackle objectives in any order, with level lengths adjusted to approximately one hour each. Unlike Doom Eternal, the narrative unfolds through cutscenes rather than in-game codex entries, promising a compelling story described as a "summer blockbuster event."

Addressing criticism of Doom Eternal's complex controls, The Dark Ages simplifies the control scheme for a more intuitive experience. Melee weapons are equipped individually, and the game features a streamlined economy with a single currency (gold). Secrets and treasures offer tangible gameplay rewards rather than lore-focused items. A customizable difficulty system allows players to fine-tune various aspects of the challenge, including game speed and enemy aggression.

Showcased in the reveal trailer, the giant Atlan mech and cybernetic dragonback riding sequences are not isolated events but offer unique abilities and mini-boss encounters. Importantly, The Dark Ages will not feature a multiplayer mode, allowing the development team to fully concentrate on crafting a compelling single-player experience.

Martin emphasizes the game's departure from Doom Eternal, aiming for a more classic Doom feel while retaining the powerful Slayer fantasy. This return to core principles, coupled with the streamlined gameplay and epic story, promises a thrilling experience for fans of the franchise. The game's release date is set for May 15th.