In a captivating interview with EDGE magazine, the developers behind the highly anticipated Doom: The Dark Ages unveiled exciting new details about the game's gameplay, promising a fresh and immersive experience. This installment shifts the spotlight to storytelling, with a narrative approach that's more direct than its predecessors. The game will transport players to a medieval-inspired world, dialing back on the futuristic elements that the series is known for. Even the iconic weapons will undergo a design transformation to fit seamlessly into this new setting.
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The levels in Doom: The Dark Ages are set to be the largest in the franchise's history, offering players a sandbox-like experience that blends dungeon crawling with expansive open-world exploration. The game is structured into "acts," beginning with tight, atmospheric dungeons before opening up into vast, explorative areas. Adding to the game's diversity, players will have the opportunity to control both a dragon and a mech, enhancing the variety of gameplay mechanics.
A standout feature in the Slayer's arsenal is a versatile shield that also functions as a chainsaw. This shield can be hurled at enemies and reacts uniquely based on the target's material—be it flesh, armor, energy shields, or other substances. The shield also facilitates a dash attack, enabling rapid movement across the battlefield. With the absence of double jumps and roars from previous games, this new mechanic becomes essential for mobility. Additionally, the shield supports parrying with customizable difficulty and timing, adding a layer of strategic depth.
Parrying in Doom: The Dark Ages serves as a "reload" mechanism for melee attacks, while engaging in melee combat replenishes ammunition for primary weapons, echoing the chainsaw mechanic seen in DOOM Eternal. Players will have access to a range of melee options, including a swift gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a heavier mace, each offering different combat styles and strategies.
