Doom: The Dark Ages Unveils New Gameplay Features

In an exclusive interview with EDGE magazine, the developers behind the eagerly awaited Doom: The Dark Ages have revealed intriguing new details about the game's expansive gameplay and narrative focus. This latest installment promises to be a significant evolution for the iconic franchise, with story elements taking a more prominent role than ever before. The game's levels are set to be the largest in the series' history, offering players a sandbox-like experience that blends the thrill of dungeon crawling with the freedom of open-world exploration.

Game director Hugo Martin and studio head Marty Stratton shared key insights during the discussion. Unlike previous Doom titles, where much of the backstory was tucked away in text logs, The Dark Ages will embrace a more direct storytelling approach. The game will transport players to a medieval-inspired world, toning down the futuristic elements that fans are accustomed to. Even the series' iconic weapons are receiving a design overhaul to seamlessly fit into this new atmospheric setting.

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The game's levels are structured into distinct "acts," beginning with tight, claustrophobic dungeons that gradually open up into vast, expansive areas. This structure not only enhances the exploration aspect but also introduces diverse gameplay mechanics. Players will have the unique opportunity to control both a dragon and a mech, adding an exhilarating layer of variety to the experience.

A notable addition to the Slayer's arsenal is a versatile shield that doubles as a chainsaw. This innovative weapon can be thrown at enemies, reacting differently based on the material it hits—whether it be flesh, armor, energy shields, or other substances. The shield also facilitates a dash attack, allowing for rapid movement across the battlefield. With the absence of double jumps and roars from previous games, this shield mechanic becomes crucial for mobility. Additionally, the shield supports a parrying system, complete with adjustable difficulty settings and precise timing windows.

Parrying in The Dark Ages serves as a "reload" mechanism for melee attacks, while engaging in melee combat replenishes ammunition for primary weapons—echoing the beloved chainsaw mechanic from DOOM Eternal. Players can choose from a variety of melee options, including a fast-paced gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower, more powerful mace, ensuring a dynamic combat experience tailored to different playstyles.