Nine years after the release of Doom (2016)—a game widely regarded as one of the most perfect and exhilarating first-person shooters ever created—the franchise is gearing up for its next chapter with Doom: The Dark Ages. Slated for release this May, this highly anticipated prequel promises new mechanics, innovations, and expanded gameplay. But the big question remains: Can it live up to the gore-soaked, high-octane legacy of its predecessor?
Here’s a deep dive into what we know about Doom: The Dark Ages so far and whether it can capture the magic of the franchise’s most celebrated entry.
The Legacy of Doom (2016)
Doom (2016) reinvented the first-person shooter genre by stripping away unnecessary complications and delivering a raw, unrelenting gameplay experience. Players were thrown into the depths of hell, tasked with obliterating waves of grotesque enemies in a fast-paced ballet of violence.
What Made Doom (2016) Special?
- Run-and-Gun Perfection: The core gameplay loop was simple but deeply satisfying. Movement was fast and fluid, making the player feel unstoppable.
- Minimal Story, Maximum Chaos: The story took a backseat, letting the brutal combat and adrenaline-pumping action shine.
- Music and Atmosphere: Mick Gordon’s heavy metal soundtrack became the heartbeat of the game, intensifying the action.
- Weapons and Glory Kills: A wide arsenal and cinematic “Glory Kills” made combat both strategic and gloriously violent.
What Doom: The Dark Ages Brings to the Table
According to the 11-minute preview video released during Microsoft’s Developers_Direct event, Doom: The Dark Ages is taking bold steps to evolve the franchise. Here’s what’s new:
1. Expanded Storyline
For a franchise that traditionally places combat over narrative, the decision to expand the story in Doom: The Dark Ages is a significant shift. The prequel dives deeper into the Doom universe’s lore, touching on ancient battles, demonic hierarchies, and humanity’s fight against extinction. While the story section of the preview video was brief (only 50 seconds), it hints at a more narrative-driven approach.
Will this gamble pay off? Fans love Doom for its combat, and any attempt to prioritize story risks alienating its core audience.
2. Combat Adjustments
Combat in Doom: The Dark Ages appears to take a slower, more strategic turn. The developers have introduced features like:
- Shield Saw: A defensive tool that allows players to block and deflect enemy attacks.
- Difficulty Sliders: Customizable options for parrying windows and enemy projectile speeds, giving players more control over combat pacing.
- Tank-Like Playstyle: Doomguy’s movement feels heavier, emphasizing defense over relentless aggression.
While these changes add depth, they risk moving away from the breakneck speed and visceral thrill that made Doom (2016) iconic.
3. Exploration and Map Design
The game introduces larger, semi-open levels with more exploration opportunities. Players can expect:
- Hidden Collectibles and Upgrades: Incentives for exploring off the beaten path.
- Mini-Objectives: Smaller, self-contained tasks within levels, inspired by open-world games.
- New Vehicle Sections: Players can pilot a dragon or a mech, adding variety to gameplay.
These features could enhance replayability, but some fans worry that the increased focus on exploration might dilute the franchise’s signature intensity.
4. New Gameplay Features
The preview teased several new elements, including:
- Granular Combat Settings: Tailored difficulty options to suit a wider range of players.
- New Enemies: From hulking demons to agile foes requiring precise timing, the game promises a challenging roster of opponents.
- Diverse Weapons: Doomguy’s arsenal gets upgrades, including weapons designed for defensive combat.
Concerns About Slowing Down the Action
The biggest concern surrounding Doom: The Dark Ages is its shift from a “fighter jet” to a “tank” playstyle. Doom (2016) thrived on its relentless pacing, where players felt like unstoppable engines of destruction. Slowing this down and adding defensive mechanics could compromise what made the franchise so unique.
The Balance Question
- Will the new mechanics, like the Shield Saw, add to the experience or make combat feel tedious?
- Can the game retain the sense of invincibility that made Doom (2016) so satisfying?
The Appeal of Doom: The Dark Ages
Despite these concerns, Doom: The Dark Ages has plenty of reasons to be excited:
- Innovation: The addition of new mechanics, exploration, and story elements demonstrates id Software’s commitment to keeping the franchise fresh.
- Customization: Granular difficulty settings ensure that players of all skill levels can enjoy the game.
- Visuals and Atmosphere: Early footage showcases stunning environments and grotesque enemy designs, staying true to the franchise’s aesthetic.
Can Doom: The Dark Ages Succeed?
Previews are not the final game, and Doom has always been a franchise that shines in the hands of players. While some fans may lament the slower pacing and increased focus on story, the game still holds the potential to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Prediction: Doom: The Dark Ages may not replicate the perfection of Doom (2016), but it has the opportunity to carve out its own legacy by balancing innovation with the franchise’s beloved chaos.
