In a recent interview with EDGE magazine, the developers behind Doom: The Dark Ages unveiled exciting new details about the game's gameplay. This upcoming installment places a strong emphasis on storytelling, with the narrative taking center stage. The levels are set to be the largest in the series' history, promising a sandbox-like experience that blends exploration and action in new ways.
Game director Hugo Martin and studio head Marty Stratton shared key highlights from their discussion. Unlike previous Doom titles where much of the backstory was tucked away in text logs, The Dark Ages will adopt a more direct storytelling approach. The game's atmosphere will evoke a medieval vibe, significantly reducing futuristic elements. Even the iconic weapons will undergo a design overhaul to fit seamlessly into this 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, combining dungeon crawling with open-world exploration. The chapters are structured into "acts," beginning with narrow dungeons and transitioning into larger, more open areas. A notable addition to the gameplay is the ability for players to control both a dragon and a mech, adding a thrilling variety to the experience.
A significant new addition to the Slayer’s arsenal is a shield that also functions as a chainsaw. This versatile tool can be thrown at enemies and reacts differently based on the material it hits—whether it's flesh, armor, energy shields, or other substances. The shield also enables a dash attack, which is crucial for quickly closing distances on the battlefield, especially since double jumps and roars from earlier games are absent. Moreover, the shield supports parrying, with customizable difficulty settings and precise timing windows.
Parrying in The Dark Ages serves as a "reload" for melee attacks, while engaging in melee combat replenishes ammunition for primary weapons, echoing the chainsaw mechanic from DOOM Eternal. Players will have a variety of melee options, including a fast-paced gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower but powerful mace.
