Could Doom: The Dark Ages Redefine Difficulty in FromSoftware Games?

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FromSoftware games are notoriously tough. In a typical FromSoft action-RPG, it’s not only bosses that can instantly defeat players, but even common enemies pose a significant threat as well. This high level of challenge has sparked some controversy in recent times. However, surprisingly, the solution to this ongoing debate about FromSoftware difficulty might be found in Doom: The Dark Ages.

Initially unveiled during Xbox’s June 2024 Showcase, the upcoming title “Doom: The Dark Ages” marks the latest installment in the popular Sci-Fi shooter series. This time around, the game delves into a more fantastical universe. At the recent Xbox Developer Direct event, id Software offered additional insights into the combat, storyline, and exploration of “Doom: The Dark Ages“, showcasing footage for each element. During the same event, id Software also demonstrated a new custom difficulty setting for “Doom: The Dark Ages” that could potentially influence future games from FromSoftware.

Future FromSoftware Games Could Borrow Doom: The Dark Ages’ Difficulty Customization

FromSoftware Games Need to Strike an Impossible Balance

Since FromSoftware first entered the gaming scene with their debut game in 1994 (“King’s Field”), there has been ongoing debate about the significant difficulty level in their games. However, this conversation has grown increasingly loud over the past decade, often reemerging with the release of a new action-RPG from FromSoftware. On one hand, some devoted fans of FromSoft argue that the high level of challenge is an integral aspect of the gaming experience, and that eliminating it would strip away a key element of the studio’s distinctive character.

It’s hard to argue against the fact that FromSoftware’s games are notoriously challenging, which can make it tough for beginners to jump in. Contrary to what some fans might think, this isn’t just a matter of skill. Many gamers with physical disabilities find their reaction times or ability to discern subtle enemy movements hindered, making these games inaccessible due to the lack of adjustable difficulty settings. Games like Doom: The Dark Ages, which allow players to customize the difficulty level, could potentially address this issue.

How Doom: The Dark Ages’ Difficulty System Could Work in a FromSoftware Game

As a fan excited about the upcoming release of “Doom: The Dark Ages”, I must say that its custom difficulty mechanics bear a striking resemblance to the action-RPGs crafted by FromSoftware. It’s not the first AAA game to offer such options, but the similarities are undeniable, making a comparison valid. In “Doom: The Dark Ages”, players can manually tweak various aspects of the game, like enemy aggression levels, projectile speeds, parry windows, damage taken, and overall game speed. For those who prefer not to tinker with these settings, preset difficulty options are also available, much like in past titles within the franchise.

In future FromSoftware games, it could be beneficial to find a middle ground that caters to both schools of thought among players. Those who prefer the intended gameplay experience can carry on playing as usual, while those seeking a more tailored challenge could do so by utilizing accessibility options. These modifications would not necessarily diminish the original experience for some fans or impact their gameplay in any way.

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2025-01-25 15:04