Doom: The Dark Ages

Gameplay

In Doom: The Dark Ages we watch the action from a first-person perspective (FPP). The game draws heavily from the achievements of the two previous parts of the series, but also introduces a number of new elements.

The world of "Cthulhu" and other locations

During the game, we explore various dark locations, facing hordes of demons. The main character, Doom Slayer, visits various planets where there are human fortresses or fields of epic battles, descends into hell, and even ends up in another dimension straight out of the so-called Cthulhu mythology. The maps are larger than in previous games and have a slightly more open structure, offering less linear mission progression and more secrets to discover.

Cacodemon and other enemies

In Doom: The Dark Ages, the protagonist's path is blocked by hordes of monsters, among which there are both varieties known to fans of the series, as well as enemies unseen before. Some of the "old acquaintances" have received new incarnations, adapted to the quasi-medieval realities of the game. This applies to opponents such as the imp and cacodemon.

Weapons

We eliminate monsters by making use of a rich arsenal. It includes both iconic weapons (such as the super shotgun, plasma cannon or rocket launcher), as well as new murder tools. We are primarily talking about a hybrid of a shield and a circular saw, which can be used not only to defend against attacks, but also to throw at enemies. Previously unavailable variants of ranged weapons were also prepared (like a rivet gun and a rifle shooting skull fragments), as well as three types of melee weapons (including a battle mace).

Combat

Once again, the key to success on the battlefield is to keep moving, avoid enemy attacks and weaken the attacking creatures (mainly with the use of firearms), and then finish them off at close range, by performing brutal "finishers" on them. In this regard, Doom: The Dark Ages has a slower pace than Doom Eternal, making Doom Slayer heavier and less mobile, and forcing the player to focus on parrying attacks with a shield.

Atlan mech and the dragon

Apart from traditional levels where we must travel on foot, Doom: The Dark Ages offers two types of intermissions. From time to time, Doom Slayer gains access to a powerful mech - a walking Atlas the size of a skyscraper, whose metal fists smash the skulls of titans. The protagonists can also ride a dragon, travelling on the creature's back and engaging in aerial battles.

Engine

Doom: The Dark Ages runs on the id Tech 8 engine, which is a new incarnation of proprietary technology developed by id Software studio. It was also used for the two previous parts of the series.

Story

Doom: The Dark Ages takes us back several hundred years from the previous games, to a specific version of the "Middle Ages". As a super weapon at the service of gods and kings, Doom Slayer must go into battle with the forces of hell, which are launching an assault on the kingdom he protects.

Editions

Doom: The Dark Ages launched in three editions: standard, Premium, and collector's edition.

Premium Edition

The Premium Edition (in addition to the copy of the game) included a story add-on (not available on the premiere day), a digital artbook, a soundtrack, and a Divinity Skin Pack. Additionally, it allowed for a 2-day early access period.

Collector's edition

The collector's edition of Doom: The Dark Ages, in addition to the content of the Premium Edition, offered a 30.5-centimeter Doom Slayer figurine, a metal replica of the red access card from the game, and a steelbook.

Limited Edition Collection (with Xbox Controller)

In addition to the above releases, three products inspired by Doom: The Dark Ages were put up for sale, together forming the Limited Edition Collection - a skin for the Xbox Series X console, as well as special versions of the Xbox Wireless Controller and Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.