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 levels that are the largest in the series' history, offering players a sandbox-like experience.

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 evoke a medieval vibe, with a significant reduction in futuristic elements. Even the iconic weapons will undergo a design overhaul to seamlessly fit into the new setting.

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Similar to its predecessors, Doom: The Dark Ages will feature distinct levels, but these will be the most expansive yet, blending dungeon crawling with open-world exploration. The game is structured into "acts," beginning with narrow dungeons and transitioning into vast, open areas. Players will have the unique opportunity to control both a dragon and a mech, adding a dynamic layer 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 hits—whether it's flesh, armor, energy shields, or other substances. The shield also facilitates a dash attack, enabling players to close distances swiftly. With the absence of double jumps and roars from earlier games, this mechanic becomes crucial for battlefield mobility. Additionally, the shield supports parrying, with adjustable difficulty settings and precise timing windows.

Parrying 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. Melee options include a fast-paced gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower mace, providing players with varied combat strategies.