Doom: The Dark Ages – The First Preview

Following the phenomenal success of 2016's Doom and its 2020 sequel, Doom Eternal, id Software's latest entry, Doom: The Dark Ages, takes a different approach. Instead of building upon Eternal's platforming elements, this medieval-themed prequel grounds the combat in intense, strafe-heavy action with a focus on raw power.

While the signature arsenal returns – including the skull-crushing new weapon showcased in the reveal trailer – The Dark Ages significantly emphasizes melee combat. Three melee weapons are central: the electrified gauntlet, a versatile flail, and the Shield Saw, capable of blocking, parrying, and deflecting attacks. "It's about standing and fighting," game director Hugo Martin explained.

Martin cites three key inspirations: the original Doom, Frank Miller's Batman: The Dark Knight Returns, and Zack Snyder's 300. This influence is evident in the game's design. The Glory Kill system has been overhauled; now, these brutal finishing moves can be executed from any angle, adapting to the intense, chaotic battles. Similar to 300 and the original Doom, players will face overwhelming odds in expanded combat arenas. Level design allows for non-linear progression, offering freedom to tackle objectives and explore at the player's pace. Level length has been adjusted to maintain a consistent, approximately one-hour playtime per level.

Addressing criticisms of Doom Eternal, The Dark Ages presents its narrative through cutscenes, eliminating the need to consult the Codex. The story promises a grand, cinematic experience, expanding the Doom universe and escalating the stakes as the Slayer's power becomes a coveted prize.

The control scheme has been streamlined for improved intuitiveness, addressing concerns about Eternal's complexity. Melee weapons are equipped individually, and the game features a simplified economy with a single currency (gold). Secrets and hidden treasures offer tangible gameplay rewards, focusing on skill progression rather than lore.

The impressive giant mech (the Atlan) and cybernetic dragon riding sequences from the trailer are not isolated events. Each features unique abilities and mini-boss encounters. 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 decision to shift away from Eternal's direction and return to the core principles of the original Doom is a key aspect of The Dark Ages' design. "It just had to be different," Martin stated. "If I wanted to play a Doom game, I wanted to feel powerful, but I was okay with changing that power fantasy, especially if it brought it closer to classic Doom." This approach has generated significant excitement for the game's May 15th release.