Doom: The Dark Ages – A Medieval Twist on Classic Gameplay

EDGE magazine recently unveiled fresh details about id Software's upcoming title, Doom: The Dark Ages. This iteration promises a significant shift in focus, prioritizing narrative storytelling within the largest levels ever seen in the Doom franchise, creating a more sandbox-like experience.

Game director Hugo Martin and studio head Marty Stratton highlighted key features:

Unlike previous installments where lore was primarily delivered through text logs, The Dark Ages will feature a more direct narrative approach. The game's aesthetic will embrace a medieval setting, minimizing futuristic elements. Even the iconic Doom weaponry will undergo a design overhaul to maintain thematic consistency.

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While maintaining the series' signature level-based structure, Doom: The Dark Ages introduces expansive levels, merging dungeon crawling with open-world exploration. The game's chapters are structured into "acts," progressing from confined dungeons to vast, explorable areas. Adding to the gameplay diversity, players will gain control of both a dragon and a mech.

A groundbreaking addition to the Slayer's arsenal is a versatile shield that also functions as a chainsaw. This innovative weapon can be thrown at enemies, exhibiting unique interactions based on the target (flesh, armor, energy shields, etc.). The shield also facilitates a dash attack for rapid close-quarters combat, compensating for the absence of double jumps and roars from previous games. Furthermore, the shield incorporates a parry mechanic with adjustable difficulty settings and precise timing requirements.

Parrying seamlessly integrates with melee combat, acting as a "reload" for melee attacks. Successfully executing melee attacks, in turn, replenishes ammunition for ranged weapons—a mechanic reminiscent of DOOM Eternal's chainsaw. Players will have a choice of melee weapons, including a fast gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower mace.