New Gameplay Details Revealed for Doom: The Dark Ages

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

EDGE magazine recently unveiled new details about Doom: The Dark Ages, promising a significant shift in the franchise's established formula. Game director Hugo Martin and studio head Marty Stratton highlighted a story-driven experience, boasting the largest levels in the series' history, creating a more sandbox-like feel.

Unlike previous entries 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 theme, toning down futuristic elements and redesigning iconic weapons to fit this new setting.

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While retaining the series' signature level-based structure, The Dark Ages introduces massive, interconnected environments. Levels are structured into "acts," progressing from claustrophobic dungeons to expansive, explorable areas. Adding to the gameplay variety, players will gain control of both a dragon and a mech.

The Slayer's arsenal receives a notable addition: a multi-functional shield that also serves as a chainsaw. This versatile weapon can be thrown, exhibiting unique interactions depending on the target (flesh, armor, energy shields, etc.). The shield also facilitates a dash attack for swift battlefield maneuvers, compensating for the absence of double jumps and roars from previous games. A parry mechanic, adjustable in difficulty, adds another layer of strategic combat.

Parrying recharges melee attacks, while melee combat itself replenishes ammunition for ranged weapons – echoing the chainsaw mechanic in DOOM Eternal. Players will choose from a selection of melee weapons: a fast gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower mace.