DOOM: The Dark Ages | All new details from Xbox Developer Direct

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As a diehard DOOM fan, I can hardly contain my excitement over the recent revelations from id Software about DOOM: The Dark Ages! At the Xbox Developer Direct, Hugo Martin, Game Director, and Marty Stratton, Executive Producer, unveiled an impressive array of details in a captivating video. With the initial announcement that more DOOM was on its way, our anticipation was already sky-high; but after witnessing a comprehensive exploration of combat, environment, storyline, and beyond, it’s evident that this journey into the abyss promises to be bolder and grander than ever before! For a comprehensive rundown of all the new features, we’ve got you covered. So, grab a comfortable seat, unwind, and join us as we delve deeper into everything we know so far about DOOM: The Dark Ages!

When will DOOM: The Dark Ages release?

I can hardly contain my excitement! The cat’s out of the bag, y’all – id Software has finally announced the release date for DOOM: The Dark Ages, and it’s sooner than we thought! Mark your calendars for May 15th because that’s when this bad boy drops on Xbox Series X|S and Game Pass, PlayStation 5, and PC. Better yet, pre-orders are now live! Time to gear up for some unholy chaos!

The story is set before 2016’s DOOM

DOOM: The Dark Ages is a precursor to the 2016 version of DOOM, and though details are yet to be fully revealed, we know that the Slayer is initially incarcerated in this game, with power dynamics undergoing a significant transformation. It has been described as an “explosive summer event where everything is at stake,” and it blends familiar and fresh characters together. Additionally, it serves as an ideal starting point for those who haven’t played the preceding two releases. What’s exciting about this release is that the narrative will be presented through dramatic cutscenes instead of codex entries, making the storyline feel more like a grand spectacle.

What’s new with the combat?

The combat strategy for DOOM: The Dark Ages is emphasized through video footage showing the DOOM Slayer wielding robust and earthbound weapons against demons. As Martin noted, DOOM 2016 was about “running and gunning,” whereas DOOM Eternal focused on “jumping and shooting.” This upcoming game encourages a different approach: “stand and fight.” All the new additions to the Slayer’s toolkit enable players to engage enemies directly without having to retreat or seek cover momentarily.

The Shield Saw

The Shield Saw of the Warrior serves diverse functions, proving indispensable during battles. It’s not just for blocking or parrying attacks, but also for repelling them, all with a single button command. You, the warrior, are a sturdy and mighty figure, moving swiftly despite your size, and power is a recurring theme in your combat style. Your shield forms the bedrock of this strength.

Three melee weapons

Engaging in close combat will provide an intense, gratifying experience, and id Software has designed three unique weapons tailored for this purpose, each looking incredibly fierce. The first is the Iron Flail, perfect for driving into an enemy’s head effortlessly; secondly, there’s the Electrified Gauntlet, which scorches and shocks nearby demons to death; lastly, a DOOM Spiked Mace, delivering heavy blows that cause significant pain. These weapons can be improved, and they have a new Glory Kill System that allows you to execute enemies from any angle using only two commands.

Tons of new guns

DOOM’s unique charm lies in its diverse collection of innovative and devastating weapons that tear apart demons, their power evident as bullets rip through their bodies. This time, we were treated to a variety of such weapons, each described as “ruthless, ancient, brutal instruments designed to dismember, impale, and mutilate the minions of hell.” Truly, this is an exhilarating way to refer to the arsenal that players will get to wield. Returning to the classic strafing-to-aim mechanic adds a nostalgic touch while still keeping things fresh within the reimagined DOOM universe.

You play as a Mech and a Dragon!

In the video, you’ll witness two fresh methods of engaging with DOOM, and in The Dark Ages, you’ll control a 30-story high Atlan mech – as big as a building, complete with gauntleted fists to crush the largest demons you face. Additionally, there’s a fire-spewing, weapon-equipped cybernetic dragon available for flight, raining down chaos from above. Each will have their own bosses too, promising an exciting experience.

Play how you want with multiple difficulty settings

Navigating DOOM may prove challenging if you’re not accustomed to the fast-paced, intense gameplay of id Software’s iconic FPS franchise. However, for those who struggle to keep pace, the game offers various difficulty settings and adjustable controls. These customizable options enable players to tailor their experience according to their preference, as demonstrated by the following sliders:

1. Movement Speed – Control the speed at which your character moves.
2. Aim Assist – Help in accurately aiming at enemies.
3. Damage Multiplier – Adjust the amount of damage you inflict on enemies.
4. Enemy Health – Modify the health levels of opponents to suit your skill level.
5. Item Spawn Rate – Determine how frequently power-ups and other helpful items appear during gameplay.

  • Difficulty sliders
  • Damage to player
  • Damage to demons
  • Enemy projectile speed
  • Enemy aggression
  • Parry window
  • Daze duration
  • Game speed
  • Resource values

How big is the world?

Based on our observation, DOOM: The Dark Ages showcases an expansive open-world setting with numerous locations to discover. This game boasts the largest play area in any DOOM title to date, offering a variety of environments such as mines, forests, dungeons, and even enigmatic realms from the Slayer’s past. Known as a “DOOM sandbox brimming with war and wealth,” players will have the freedom to engage in battles against anyone they choose and travel to any destination they desire.

Who’s providing the music?

In simple terms, the soundtrack for DOOM is as essential to the game’s identity as its weapons or the hellish world it portrays. The talented team at Finishing Move has created a soundtrack that embodies all the intensity and grit you would expect. This team is renowned for their work on various titles like Halo Wars 2, Crackdown 3, and Borderlands 3, so you can be confident of the exceptional quality they bring to this project.

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2025-01-23 22:16