Doom's enduring legacy is inextricably linked to the evolution of metal music. A single note from any Doom soundtrack instantly evokes the series' demonic imagery, mirroring the aesthetic of bands like Iron Maiden. This symbiotic relationship has mirrored the franchise's gameplay evolution, reinventing itself across three decades. From thrash metal origins, Doom has embraced various subgenres, culminating in the metalcore intensity of Doom: The Dark Ages.
The original 1993 Doom drew inspiration from late 80s/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, composed by Bobby Prince, incorporated thrash elements reminiscent of Metallica and Anthrax, perfectly complementing the game's fast-paced action.
Doom 3 (2004) marked a departure, embracing survival horror elements and a slower pace. This shift necessitated a new sonic direction, influenced by Tool's atmospheric sound. While Trent Reznor's involvement was initially considered, Chris Vrenna (Nine Inch Nails) and Clint Walsh ultimately composed the soundtrack, creating a soundscape reminiscent of Tool's Lateralus.
The 2016 Doom reboot revitalized the series, returning to the frenetic pace of the original while incorporating djent influences. Mick Gordon's groundbreaking soundtrack, featuring heavy sub-bass and white noise, became iconic. Doom Eternal (2020), while also featuring Gordon's work, leaned further into metalcore, reflecting the contemporary metal scene and incorporating elements from bands he was simultaneously producing, such as Bring Me the Horizon and Architects.
Doom: The Dark Ages presents a unique opportunity. Its revised combat mechanics suggest a soundtrack that blends past and present metal influences. Early previews hint at a score by Finishing Move (Borderlands 3, The Callisto Protocol) that incorporates the intensity of Knocked Loose alongside thrash elements reminiscent of the original Doom. The game's slower, more deliberate combat, featuring mechs and dragons, demands a flexible soundtrack capable of both crushing heaviness and lighter, more agile moments.
The Dark Ages' design, incorporating large-scale combat and monstrous creatures, mirrors the evolution of modern metal's experimentation with electronic, hip-hop, and other genres, much like Bring Me the Horizon's diverse sound. This evolution parallels the game's departure from traditional "boots on the ground" gameplay, influenced by titles like Titanfall 2. The combination of intense combat and a dynamic soundtrack promises an exciting addition to the Doom franchise, potentially creating another landmark metal-infused score.
