Doom: The Dark Ages marks a departure from the intense and fast-paced action of Doom Eternal, instead taking players back in time to a medieval setting. This prequel to the modern Doom games aims to capture the essence of the original game that made the series legendary. According to creative director Hugo Martin, the decision to delve into this medieval war against Hell was driven by a desire to change the core gameplay mechanics and return to the roots of Doom. The team at id Software recognized that they hadn’t quite hit the mark with Doom Eternal and sought to create a game that could stand on its own while still appealing to both new and longtime fans of the series.
One of the key aspects that the team wanted to emphasize in Doom: The Dark Ages was a return to the series’ original ethos. While Doom Eternal focused heavily on verticality and constant movement, the new game aims to ground players and make them feel more powerful. Martin compares the experience to being an Abrams tank rather than an F22 fighter jet. This shift in combat mechanics not only provides a fresh experience for new players who joined the series with the reboot but also offers a nostalgic return to form for longtime fans of the original Doom.
Overall, Doom: The Dark Ages represents a deliberate choice by id Software to revisit the past and reinvigorate the series. By going back to the fundamentals of play and creating a combat system that feels reimagined yet familiar, the team hopes to deliver a game that captures the spirit of the original while still offering something new and exciting for players. With its medieval setting and a focus on grounded power, Doom: The Dark Ages promises to be a thrilling addition to the Doom franchise.
