In a captivating interview with EDGE magazine, the developers behind Doom: The Dark Ages unveiled exciting new details about the game's gameplay mechanics and narrative approach. This latest installment in the iconic series promises to place a significant emphasis on storytelling, setting it apart from its predecessors. The game's levels are designed to be the largest in the franchise's history, offering players a sandbox-like experience that blends traditional Doom action with expansive exploration.
Game director Hugo Martin and studio head Marty Stratton shed light on 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 adopt a more direct storytelling method. The game's atmosphere will be steeped in medieval aesthetics, dialing back on the futuristic elements that fans have come to expect—even the iconic weapons will undergo a design transformation to align with the new setting.
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Similar to earlier entries, Doom: The Dark Ages will feature distinct levels, but these will be the most expansive yet, combining dungeon crawling with open-world exploration. The game's structure is divided into "acts," beginning with confined dungeon settings and gradually expanding into vast, open areas. To add further variety to the gameplay, players will have the opportunity to control both a dragon and a mech.
A standout addition to the Slayer’s arsenal is a multifunctional shield that also serves as a chainsaw. This shield can be hurled at enemies, with its impact varying based on the material it strikes—whether flesh, armor, energy shields, or other substances. The shield also introduces a dash attack, enabling players to swiftly close gaps on the battlefield. With the absence of double jumps and roars from previous games, this new mechanic will be pivotal for mobility. Additionally, the shield facilitates parrying, with customizable difficulty settings and precise timing windows.
Parrying in Doom: The Dark Ages functions as a "reload" for melee attacks, while engaging in melee combat replenishes ammunition for primary weapons, echoing the chainsaw mechanic seen in DOOM Eternal. Players will have a range of melee options at their disposal, including a swift gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a more deliberate mace.
