DOOM: The Dark Ages is the next entry in the DOOM franchise. Positioned as a prequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016), DOOM: The Dark Ages follows the DOOM Slayer through a narrative set during a medieval war against the forces of Hell. I recently had the opportunity to attend a preview event, where I watched extended gameplay footage and sat down with the developers to explore some of the new and exciting features coming with the launch of DOOM: The Dark Ages.
Design Philosophy
If DOOM (2016) emphasized run-and-gun gameplay and DOOM Eternal focused on jump-and-shoot mechanics, DOOM: The Dark Ages centres on stand-and-fight combat. Built around the concept of being an iron tank, the Slayer and his arsenal are designed to endure relentless enemy attacks while navigating obstacles to close the gap on foes. In a nod to the original games, DOOM: The Dark Ages reintroduces the strafe-and-shoot style that made the franchise’s early titles so iconic.
“If DOOM (2016) emphasized run-and-gun gameplay and DOOM Eternal focused on jump-and-shoot mechanics, DOOM: The Dark Ages centres on stand-and-fight combat.”
All weapons are designed for mid- to close-range combat, forcing players to push toward enemies while dodging and parrying incoming attacks. Parrying plays a central role in combat, offering players new and unique ways to control enemies on the battlefield. Seeing it in action during the preview was impressive, showcasing a gameplay shift that promises to change how players approach combat.
New Game Mechanics to Get Excited About
While DOOM: The Dark Ages promises a host of new weapons and features to rip and tear through, perhaps the most unique and exciting addition is the inclusion of the Shield Saw. Featured prominently in the release trailer, this innovative medieval-inspired weapon not only allows the Slayer to defend against incoming attacks but also doubles as a lethal offensive tool.
Tossed in a Captain America-style throw (with far more gruesome results), the Shield Saw offers a creative new way to engage enemies. It can also be used in shield mode to close the distance on foes or as an exploration tool to access hard-to-reach areas. It’s a smart, versatile weapon that adds a fresh dimension to the Slayer’s arsenal.
Equally noteworthy is the opportunity to control both the Atlan (think Pacific Rim) and a dragon during the game. The gameplay for both looks incredible, and according to the developers, players will have plenty of chances to pilot these massive creatures. Few things scream DOOM like piloting a 100-foot mech and delivering a power punch to a demon’s face.
Another standout feature is the revamped Glory Kill system. First introduced in DOOM (2016), this mechanic delivered gruesome, scripted animations for finishing enemies. While it became a staple in both DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, DOOM: The Dark Ages takes a bold step forward by replacing static, scripted animations with a fluid, player-driven system for executing glory kills.
When approaching an enemy to execute a glory kill, every factor—from the current weapon to the angle of approach—impacts the resulting animation. Unlike the scripted sequences in previous titles that briefly removed players from the action, this new fluid system keeps the gameplay seamless, enabling multiple, consecutive glory kills without interruption. The demo showcased this mechanic impressively, and I can’t wait to experience it in real time.
“DOOM: The Dark Ages is shaping up to be an impressive evolution of the modern DOOM titles, refining core elements while delivering a fresh, medieval twist.”
While DOOM: The Dark Ages introduces more complex and exciting ways to dispatch foes, ID Software has worked diligently to streamline the controls. The philosophy behind this change is that with a simplified control layout, the game can demand more from players, creating a more engaging and rewarding gameplay loop. The preview highlighted several examples of complex manoeuvres executed smoothly and effortlessly.
Actions that previously required multiple key inputs now become contextual and are executed with a single input. This updated system feels like a welcome evolution from the DOOM Eternal formula. While Eternal was an exceptional game, the complexity of its controls proved challenging for some players, especially in the DLC.
On the topic of difficulty, DOOM: The Dark Ages introduces a unique feature: customizable difficulty sliders. This system is entirely separate from the standard difficulty settings. While previous titles allowed some adjustment of gameplay elements via console commands, The Dark Ages refines and expands this functionality through a dedicated menu option.
From this menu, players can adjust parameters such as game speed, stun durations, and parry windows. This feature serves an important purpose. For hardcore players seeking an even greater challenge, the addition of a new level of difficulty beyond Ultra Nightmare will push them to their limits. For more casual players (a group I likely belong to), the sliders provide a way to tailor the experience, making the game accessible without sacrificing the exhilarating power fantasy that DOOM has always delivered.
Story: What We Know
While the team kept most details about the narrative under wraps, they did highlight a few key points. First and foremost, DOOM: The Dark Ages shifts much of the story and lore from the codex to cutscenes. This approach aims to enhance immersion and present the rich, deep lore of DOOM in a more accessible and engaging format. For those who love unearthing hidden lore, rest assured—ID Software confirmed that there will still be plenty of golden nuggets to discover.
It’s also confirmed that DOOM: The Dark Ages serves as a prequel to the acclaimed DOOM 2016, setting the stage for the events of that game. The new entry will expand on some of the fragments of story seen in DOOM 2016, providing additional context and framing the events of that title in greater detail. Players can also look forward to exploring incredible locations and worlds.
Speaking of exploration, DOOM: The Dark Ages is confirmed to be the largest DOOM game ever created. With a greater emphasis on large-scale areas, players will have unique opportunities for both combat and exploration. The latter is a particular focus for ID Software this time around. While there will still be toys and collectibles to find, their discovery will have a greater impact on gameplay. The goal is to encourage players to delve into every corner of the game’s expansive environments.
Release and DLC
It was confirmed during the event that DOOM: The Dark Ages will have planned DLC, which can be purchased separately or as part of the Deluxe Edition. While no specifics were provided about the amount or content of the DLC, it is promising to hear that it is already in development.
As for the release date, ID Software confirmed that DOOM: The Dark Ages will launch on May 15, 2025, with pre-sales available starting Thursday, Jan. 23, 2025.
Final Thoughts
DOOM: The Dark Ages is shaping up to be an impressive evolution of the modern DOOM titles. Like its predecessors, The Dark Ages aims to deliver a unique gameplay experience while refining the core elements that have made the franchise so successful. It’s a title I am genuinely excited about and eagerly anticipate.
Stay tuned to CGMagazine.com for the latest updates on DOOM: The Dark Ages.
