Doom: The Dark Ages and Its Classic Mythology References

by

Doom: The Dark Ages” signifies the next installment in developer id Software’s contemporary adaptations of what is often regarded as the most impactful first-person shooter series ever created. Following its reboot in 2016, the studio released “Doom: Eternal” in 2020, amping up the furious demon-slaying action even more. In contrast to the breakneck pace of previous games, “Doom: The Dark Ages” has the Slayer taking a relative step back, serving as a steadfast figure for the Night Sentinels of Argent D’Nur while Hell’s armies launch an assault on their planet in a prequel narrative to the earlier games.

In the fresh combat strategy for “Doom: The Dark Ages,” players are encouraged to take up a fighting stance of “stand firm.” This innovative tactic is part of the game’s evolving combat philosophy and setting, where it dabbles with established elements, occasionally veering away from tradition and pushing beyond its customary limits. However, the Doom franchise has always subtly incorporated elements of classic myths and literature, and “The Dark Ages” maintains this trend by drawing upon a few distinct and well-known references in its storyline.

The following article contains spoilers for Doom: The Dark Ages.

How Doom: The Dark Ages Draws From Greek Myths and Classic Literature

Doom Now Encompasses a Range of Tonal Influences

Regarding the game “Doom,” t Eternal” and its two-part DLC, The Ancient Gods, which established the Night Sentinels for a future game titled “The Dark Ages.

The work of Dante Alighieri’s epic poem “The Divine Comedy,” particularly “Inferno,” has significantly impacted the game “Doom.” This section of the poem, known for its vivid portrayal of Hell, has served as a source of inspiration for many works in Western literature. In “Doom,” this influence is evident through the depiction of the Makyr race, which resemble cybernetic angels, and the blending of traditional elements with a sci-fi twist. The game “The Dark Ages” combines medieval and futuristic aesthetics, creating a unique blend that seamlessly integrates both periods. Additionally, it incorporates elements from classic Greek mythology, further enriching the visual and narrative design of the series.

Doom: The Dark Ages Covers Both Cosmic Horror and Classical Myths

In the game “Doom: The Dark Ages,” it proudly displays its unique blend of sci-fi and medieval elements, but it doesn’t stop there. It ventures into realms even stranger than Hell itself during its Lovecraftian cosmic horror segments. The Slayer encounters a kind of afterlife resembling the Greek underworld in these sections and later missions. This otherworldly setting serves as a bridge, seamlessly merging the atmosphere and aesthetic of “The Dark Ages” levels with the game’s classic influences.

In this scenario, the Slayer confronts a character strongly reminiscent of Charon, the boatman who ferries deceased souls across underworld rivers in legend, who typically demands payment for his service. True to form, the Slayer settles his debt with a single shotgun blast to the face. He hijacks the vessel, envisioned as a colossal warship adorned with skulls, and steers it headlong through Hell’s gates in an exhilarating series of events. Some levels within Doom echo descriptions from Dante’s Inferno, while the game’s latest edition may present the clearest representation yet of these influences. Furthermore, its allusions to Greek mythology and tales enhance the narrative, skillfully integrating these elements into a unified whole that respects their origins while adding an undeniably Doom-like twist.

Read More

2025-05-21 03:46