Doom: The Dark Ages

Doom: The Dark Ages is the highly anticipated next entry in the legendary Doom franchise, rumored to take the series in a bold new direction. Instead of the futuristic, sci-fi-inspired settings that have defined Doom since its inception, this installment is said to transport players to a medieval-inspired world filled with dark fantasy, brutal combat, and monstrous foes.

With id Software once again at the helm, expectations are sky-high. In this article, we’ll dive into everything we know so far, including the game’s setting, gameplay mechanics, story elements, and potential release date.

A Medieval Take on Doom

Unlike previous Doom titles, which have focused on high-tech weaponry and space-faring adventures, Doom: The Dark Ages is expected to feature a setting reminiscent of dark medieval fantasy. If the rumors hold true, players will step into the boots of the Doom Slayer in a world filled with castles, dungeons, and gothic landscapes overrun by hellish creatures.

While this is a departure from the sci-fi-heavy themes of Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal, it isn’t entirely out of left field. Doom Eternal introduced elements of the Doom Slayer’s mysterious past, including glimpses of an ancient, knightly order known as the Night Sentinels. Doom: The Dark Ages could further explore this backstory, placing players in an earlier era when the war against Hell was fought with steel and sorcery instead of plasma rifles and BFGs.

Gameplay: Brutal, Fast-Paced Combat in a Medieval World

Doom has always been known for its high-octane, frenetic combat, and Doom: The Dark Ages will likely retain this signature style while incorporating new elements to fit the medieval setting.

Melee Combat and Medieval Weaponry

A medieval setting suggests that melee weapons could play a bigger role than ever before. Instead of relying on futuristic guns, the Doom Slayer may wield brutal weapons like:

• Massive battle-axes
• Spiked maces
• Enchanted swords
• Crossbows with explosive bolts
• Primitive firearms reminiscent of early gunpowder weaponry

Given id Software’s expertise in weapon design, expect these tools of destruction to feel weighty and satisfying, much like the chainsaw in previous Doom games.

Classic Guns with a Dark Ages Twist

While melee combat might be emphasized, it’s unlikely that id Software will abandon firearms altogether. Instead, expect medieval variations of classic Doom weapons, such as:

• A crossbow replacing the precision-heavy sniper rifle
• A flintlock-style shotgun for devastating close-range attacks
• Magic-infused gauntlets that unleash powerful projectiles

Demonic Enemies and Boss Battles

Hell’s monstrous legions will undoubtedly return, but this time they might take on forms inspired by medieval mythology. Instead of cybernetic demons and mechanized Hellspawn, expect:

• Gargoyle-like flying demons
• Infernal knights clad in cursed armor
• Behemoth-like creatures resembling medieval dragons
• Necromancer-style enemies that summon hordes of undead

Boss battles could take a more cinematic approach, featuring massive demonic overlords that require strategy, skill, and well-timed weapon swaps to defeat.

Traversal and Mobility

Doom Eternal introduced platforming mechanics, including dashing, wall climbing, and grappling hooks. A medieval setting could push this even further by incorporating:

• Grappling whips or chains for swinging across chains
• Mounts or rideable creatures for faster movement
• Siege weapons like ballistae or catapults to navigate large-scale battles

Story and Setting: The Origins of the Doom Slayer?

Doom: The Dark Ages could delve deeper into the Doom Slayer’s past, possibly serving as a prequel that explores his transformation into the ultimate demon-killing warrior. If the game is set during the era of the Night Sentinels, players may witness the war between the Argent D’Nur civilization and Hell firsthand.

Potential story elements include:

• The rise of the Doom Slayer and his origins as a warrior of the Sentinels
• Betrayal by corrupt leaders who allowed Hell’s invasion
• A desperate struggle against demonic forces without the aid of advanced technology
• The forging of legendary weapons, including the Crucible sword seen in Doom Eternal

Graphics and Engine

Doom: The Dark Ages will likely run on an enhanced version of the id Tech engine, which powered Doom Eternal. The game’s graphics should showcase stunning medieval environments with:

• Hyper-detailed gothic castles and ruined fortresses
• Realistic fire and lighting effects to enhance the dark fantasy atmosphere
• Improved enemy animations and gore mechanics for even more satisfying combat

Potential Release Date and Platforms

While there’s no official confirmation from Bethesda or id Software, leaks suggest that Doom: The Dark Ages could be revealed in 2024, possibly at a major gaming event such as E3 or Gamescom. If development is far along, a late 2024 or early 2025 release date is possible.

The game will almost certainly launch on:

• PC (Steam and Microsoft Store)
• Xbox Series X/S (as Microsoft owns Bethesda and id Software)
• PlayStation 5 (unless it’s made an Xbox exclusive)

Given Microsoft’s strategy of making games available on Game Pass, it’s highly likely that Doom: The Dark Ages will be available on Xbox Game Pass at launch.

Final Thoughts

Doom: The Dark Ages could be one of the most exciting shake-ups in the franchise’s history, blending Doom’s legendary fast-paced action with a dark medieval setting. With brutal melee combat, monstrous medieval demons, and a potential deep dive into the Doom Slayer’s origins, the game has the potential to redefine what a Doom title can be.

While we await official confirmation and gameplay reveals, the anticipation is already building. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, Doom: The Dark Ages is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing FPS games on the horizon.

Stay tuned for more updates as id Software unveils new details about the game!