Doom: The Dark Ages Unveils New Gameplay Details

In an insightful interview with EDGE magazine, the developers behind Doom: The Dark Ages have unveiled exciting new details about the game's upcoming features. This installment promises to place a stronger emphasis on narrative, with levels that are the largest the series has ever seen, offering players a sandbox-like experience that blends intense action with exploration.

Hugo Martin, the game director, and Marty Stratton, the studio head, shared key insights from their discussion. Unlike previous Doom games where the backstory was often tucked away in text logs, The Dark Ages will adopt a more direct storytelling approach. The game's atmosphere will channel a medieval aesthetic, dialing back on futuristic elements. Even the iconic weapons will be reimagined to fit seamlessly into this new setting.

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While maintaining the series' tradition of distinct levels, Doom: The Dark Ages will introduce the most expansive maps to date. Players will navigate through dungeon-like corridors that open up into vast, explorable worlds. The game is structured into "acts," beginning in tight dungeons and expanding into wide-open areas. Adding to the gameplay variety, players will have the ability to control both a dragon and a mech.

A notable addition to the Slayer's arsenal is a versatile shield that also functions as a chainsaw. This shield can be hurled at enemies and reacts uniquely based on the target—whether it's flesh, armor, energy shields, or other materials. The shield enhances battlefield mobility with a dash attack feature, compensating for the absence of double jumps and roars from previous games. Furthermore, the shield supports parrying mechanics with customizable difficulty and precise timing windows.

Parrying in The Dark Ages serves as a "reload" for melee attacks, and engaging in melee combat replenishes ammunition for primary weapons, reminiscent of the chainsaw mechanic in DOOM Eternal. Players will have access to a variety of melee options, including a swift gauntlet, a well-balanced shield, and a heavy mace, each offering different combat dynamics.