Doom's Combat Upgrades with Metalvolution

Doom's enduring connection to metal music is undeniable. A single note from any Doom soundtrack instantly evokes the series' demonic imagery, mirroring the aesthetic of bands like Iron Maiden. This symbiotic relationship between Doom's gameplay and metal subgenres has evolved over three decades. From its thrash metal origins, Doom's soundtracks have traversed various metal styles, culminating in the metalcore intensity of Doom: The Dark Ages.

The original 1993 Doom drew heavily from late 80s and early 90s metal giants like Pantera and Alice in Chains, evident in tracks like "Untitled" (E3M1: Hell Keep), which echoes Pantera's "Mouth of War." The overall soundtrack embraced thrash metal, reminiscent of Metallica and Anthrax, perfectly complementing the game's fast-paced action. Bobby Prince's score remains iconic, mirroring the game's exhilarating gunplay.

This synergy continued for over a decade until the 2004 release of Doom 3. This survival horror-inspired installment experimented with a slower pace, demanding a new sonic landscape. While Trent Reznor's involvement was initially considered, Chris Vrenna (formerly of Nine Inch Nails) and Clint Walsh ultimately composed the soundtrack, drawing inspiration from Tool's atmospheric and complex sound. Doom 3's main theme resonates with the experimental nature of Tool's Lateralus, fitting the game's sci-fi horror setting.

Doom 3's unique style stands out in the Doom franchise, reflecting the broader evolution of FPS games in the early 2000s. The shift towards console shooters and the concurrent changes in metal music (the aftermath of nu-metal's decline) influenced the game's direction. While Doom 3 wasn't as critically acclaimed as Lateralus, its unsettling soundtrack remains a successful experiment.

Following a period of development challenges, the 2016 Doom reboot revitalized the series, returning to the frenetic pace of the original. Mick Gordon's soundtrack, a masterful blend of djent and heavy metal, became instantly iconic, arguably surpassing the original's impact. The heart-pounding rhythms of tracks like "BFG Division" perfectly synchronized with the game's intense combat.

Doom Eternal (2020), while also featuring Gordon's work, experienced production complexities, resulting in a soundtrack that, while still heavily influenced by his style, leans more towards metalcore, reflecting the trends of the late 2010s and early 2020s. The influence of bands like Bring Me the Horizon and Architects is palpable, particularly in the album's heavier breakdowns and electronic elements. Despite its quality, Eternal's soundtrack feels slightly less raw than its predecessor, mirroring the game's incorporation of platforming and puzzle elements.

The author expresses a preference for Doom 2016's rawer sound, comparing it favorably to the heavier, less refined works of some metalcore bands. Doom Eternal, while excellent, is viewed as a more polished, less impactful experience.

Doom: The Dark Ages presents a fascinating new chapter. Initial glimpses suggest a soundtrack inspired by both classic and modern metal, aligning with the game's updated combat. Composers Finishing Move (known for Borderlands 3 and The Callisto Protocol) seem to be drawing inspiration from Knocked Loose's heavy breakdowns, while also incorporating thrash metal elements reminiscent of the original Doom.

The slower, more deliberate combat of The Dark Ages, featuring mech battles and dragon fights, necessitates a versatile soundtrack capable of both crushing heaviness and lighter, more agile moments. The combination of Knocked Loose's intensity and thrash-inspired elements creates a promising soundscape.

The author expresses optimism about The Dark Ages, anticipating a soundtrack that builds upon the series' legacy and the broader evolution of metal music. The game's unique additions (mech combat, mythological creatures) parallel the genre's experimentation, showcasing a thrilling combination of classic and modern influences. The author concludes by expressing excitement for the potential of a new favorite metal album accompanying the game's release.