New Gameplay Details Revealed for Doom: The Dark Ages

Doom: The Dark Ages – A Medieval Twist on Classic Gameplay

EDGE magazine recently unveiled new details about Doom: The Dark Ages, promising a significant shift in the franchise's established formula. This iteration prioritizes narrative, delivering a more linear storyline compared to previous entries where lore was primarily revealed through collectible text. The game's medieval setting will be richly atmospheric, featuring a significant departure from the series' futuristic aesthetic. Even iconic weapons will undergo a design transformation to fit the new era.

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While retaining the series' signature level-based structure, Doom: The Dark Ages boasts the largest levels yet, seamlessly blending dungeon crawling with open-world exploration. The game's chapters are structured into "acts," progressing from confined dungeon environments to expansive areas, offering a dynamic gameplay experience. Adding further variety, players will gain control of both a dragon and a mech, significantly expanding combat options.

A revolutionary addition to the Slayer's arsenal is a versatile shield that functions as both a defensive tool and a devastating melee weapon. This transformable shield can be thrown at enemies, with its impact varying based on the target's composition (flesh, armor, energy shields, etc.). The shield also enables a rapid dash attack, closing the distance to enemies swiftly. This mechanic compensates for the absence of double jumps and roars from previous titles, maintaining crucial battlefield mobility. Furthermore, the shield allows for parrying, offering adjustable difficulty settings for players of all skill levels.

Parrying effectively recharges melee attacks, while successful melee combat replenishes ammunition for ranged weapons, mirroring the chainsaw mechanic in DOOM Eternal. Players will have a choice of melee weapons, including a fast gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower but potentially more powerful mace.