Doom: The Dark Ages Unveils New Gameplay Features

In a recent interview with EDGE magazine, the developers behind Doom: The Dark Ages unveiled exciting new details about the game's gameplay. This installment promises to place a stronger emphasis on storytelling, with the narrative taking center stage. Moreover, the levels in Doom: The Dark Ages are set to be the largest in the series' history, offering players a sandbox-like experience that blends the thrill of exploration with intense combat.

Game director Hugo Martin and studio head Marty Stratton shared key insights during the discussion. Unlike previous Doom titles where much of the backstory was tucked away in text logs, The Dark Ages will adopt a more direct storytelling approach. The game's atmosphere will immerse players in a medieval setting, dialing back on futuristic elements. Even the iconic weapons will undergo a design overhaul to seamlessly fit into this new world.

Image: youtube.com

Similar to its predecessors, Doom: The Dark Ages will feature distinct levels, but these will be the most expansive yet, combining dungeon crawling with open-world exploration. The game is structured into "acts," beginning with tight, claustrophobic dungeons before opening up into vast, sprawling areas. Players will also have the unique opportunity to control both a dragon and a mech, adding a fresh layer of variety to the gameplay experience.

A notable addition to the Slayer's arsenal is a versatile shield that doubles as a chainsaw. This shield can be thrown at enemies and reacts differently based on the material it strikes—whether it's flesh, armor, energy shields, or other substances. The shield also facilitates a dash attack, enabling players to swiftly close the distance to their foes. With the absence of double jumps and roars from earlier games, this shield mechanic will be crucial for battlefield mobility. Additionally, the shield supports parrying, with adjustable difficulty settings and precise timing windows to enhance the challenge.

Parrying in Doom: The Dark Ages serves as a "reload" mechanism for melee attacks, while engaging in melee combat replenishes ammunition for primary weapons, reminiscent of the chainsaw mechanic in DOOM Eternal. Players will have a range of melee options at their disposal, including a fast-paced gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower but powerful mace.