New Gameplay Details Revealed for Doom: The Dark Ages

In a recent interview with EDGE magazine, the developers of Doom: The Dark Ages unveiled exciting new gameplay details. This iteration places a strong emphasis on narrative, boasting the largest levels in the series' history, creating a truly sandbox-like experience.

Game director Hugo Martin and studio head Marty Stratton highlighted key aspects of the game's evolution. Unlike previous Doom titles where lore was primarily delivered through text logs, The Dark Ages will feature a more direct and engaging storytelling approach. The game's atmosphere will evoke a medieval setting, toning down futuristic elements and even redesigning iconic weapons to fit this new aesthetic.

While retaining the series' signature distinct levels, Doom: The Dark Ages will introduce the largest environments yet, seamlessly blending dungeon crawling with open-world exploration. The game's chapters are structured into "acts," progressing from confined dungeons to expansive, explorable areas. Adding to the gameplay variety, players will have the ability to control both a dragon and a mech.

A significant addition to the Slayer's arsenal is a revolutionary shield that also functions as a chainsaw. This versatile weapon can be thrown at enemies, exhibiting unique interactions depending on the target (flesh, armor, energy shields, etc.). The shield also enables a dash attack for rapid closing of distances, compensating for the absence of double jumps and roars from previous games. Furthermore, the shield allows for parrying, with adjustable difficulty settings and precise timing windows.

Parrying acts as a "reload" for melee attacks, while successful melee combat replenishes ammunition for primary weapons—a mechanic reminiscent of the chainsaw in DOOM Eternal. Melee combat options include a fast-paced gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower, more powerful mace.