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 places a strong emphasis on narrative, with the story taking center stage. Additionally, the levels are set to be the largest in the series' history, offering players a sandbox-like experience that promises to be both immersive and expansive.

Game director Hugo Martin and studio head Marty Stratton highlighted several key aspects during the discussion. Unlike previous Doom titles, where much of the backstory was tucked away in text logs, Doom: The Dark Ages will employ a more direct storytelling method. 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 integrate with 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. The game blends dungeon crawling with open-world exploration, dividing chapters into "acts." Players will start in narrow dungeons before transitioning to vast, open areas. A unique gameplay addition is the ability to control both a dragon and a mech, introducing fresh dynamics to the gameplay.

A significant addition to the Slayer’s arsenal is a versatile shield that also functions as a chainsaw. This shield can be thrown at enemies, reacting differently based on the material it hits, such as flesh, armor, energy shields, or other surfaces. It also enables a dash attack, allowing players to quickly close distances on the battlefield. With the absence of double jumps and roars from earlier games, this shield mechanic will be crucial for mobility. Additionally, the shield supports parrying, with adjustable difficulty settings and precise timing windows.

Parrying serves as a "reload" for melee attacks, while engaging in melee combat replenishes ammunition for primary weapons—reminiscent of the chainsaw mechanic in DOOM Eternal. Players will have various melee options at their disposal, including a fast-paced gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower mace, each offering different tactical advantages.