Doom: The Dark Ages Review – New Shield, New Foes, But Classic Feel

Set within a dark fantasy universe, Doom: The Dark Ages throws players into a war-torn world where the Doom Slayer battles demon armies threatening humanity. The plot of the game follows the origin of the Doom Slayer’s rage, providing a cinematic storyline that expands the lore of the franchise. Divided into 22 carefully crafted chapters, players work through diverse environments—from desolate temples and haunted forests to hellish landscapes—each with secrets and challenges to discover.

Chapters of Carnage: Expectations

Doom: The Dark Ages is comprised of 22 action-filled chapters, each one tailored to deliver a unique and escalating experience. From the early battlefields of devastated citadels to the blazing core of Hell, every chapter introduces new challenges, environment-based puzzles, and varied enemy combat. Players can expect a mix of large-scale boss battles, frightening exploration sequences, and brutal arena combat.

The pacing is calculated to progressively crank up the heat while including milestone lore moments that deepen the Doom Slayer’s legacy. Whether you’re uncovering ancient relics or carving a path through demon hordes, each chapter is a testament to the game’s commitment to high-energy action and compelling storytelling.

Shield-Based Combat: An Evolutionary Tactic

Departing from the free-flying combat of its predecessors, The Dark Ages introduces a weightier, more deliberate combat style. Most prominent among these is the Doom Slayer’s shield, which is utilized for both offense and defense. The player is able to deflect the attacks of enemies, leaving them vulnerable to vicious counterattacks, and utilize the shield to bash through obstacles and enemies. This introduces an element of strategy, requiring precise timing and positioning.

Complementing the shield are new weapons like the Impaler and the Shredder, each offering unique combat opportunities. The game’s arsenal encourages players to adapt their tactics, making each encounter a test of skill and adaptability.

Expansive Environments and Exploration

The Dark Ages boasts the largest play areas in the history of the series, with massive, interconnected levels crammed with hidden areas and pick-ups. The structure of the game rewards exploration, with upgrades and backstory rewarded to players who stray from the main path.

Of special note are the sections where the player pilots massive mechs and mounts cybernetic dragons, adding variety and scale to the action.

Atmospheric Audio and Visuals

The game’s graphics marry medieval architecture to Hell’s grotesque shapes, creating a world that is beautifully haunting. Levels are dense with detail, encouraging immersion and story.

Graphics are complemented by a driving soundtrack that blends heavy metal music with medieval-inspired themes, increasing the game’s atmosphere and enhancing on-screen action.

Critical Reception and Player Feedback

Doom: The Dark Ages garnered positive reviews, with reviewers praising its new combat system and atmospheric setting. Game Informer called it “modern Doom done better than ever,” praising its challenging and strategic gameplay.

However, some critics have noted that the game’s shift from frenetic action to a more methodical combat style may not be for all fans. Vulture noted that the game is imaginatively “stagnant,” with the feeling that it doesn’t move the series forward that much.

Final Thoughts: A Bold New Chapter for Doom

Doom: The Dark Ages is a tribute to id Software’s dedication to innovation in a beloved franchise. With its innovations in shield-based combat and huge, exploration-oriented levels, the game takes the Doom formula in a new direction. While its shift from high-speed action will alienate old fans, it certainly brings added depth to the series’ narrative and gameplay.

For players seeking a challenging, atmospheric shooter that redefines what it means to be the Doom Slayer, The Dark Ages is a compelling and visceral experience. And for those players who like to stay up to date on new Doom news,  right here is the perfect place to do so!