Doom: The Dark Ages is proving to be a formidable follow-up to the 2020 hit, Doom Eternal, which many tout as one of the top-tier first-person shooters in gaming history. Id Software’s recent showcase during Xbox’s Developer_Direct has only fueled the excitement surrounding this game, especially with its intriguing medieval angle on the beloved Doom blueprint.
Over the years, Doom has deftly evolved, shifting from the moody, atmospheric gameplay of Doom 3 to the intense, adrenaline-pumping action of the 2016 reboot. Doom: The Dark Ages continues this trend of transformation. Set before the events of the 2016 iteration, it chronicles an early demonic invasion in a world starkly different from what players might remember. This prequel shifts the environment to a science-fantasy medieval realm, bringing with it a novel array of weaponry that capitalizes on its setting. Interestingly, the Doom Slayer may not be battling solo this time around. The game hints at the possibility of fighting alongside human soldiers, marking a potential shift from the traditional lone warrior archetype the series is known for. How this will play out in gameplay remains a mystery, but it certainly piques curiosity.
In traditional Doom fashion, the Doom Slayer is a force of nature, a nearly unstoppable powerhouse designed to obliterate the hellish adversary without breaking a sweat. Historically, allies have been conspicuously absent from his side, largely because the idea of mere mortals assisting an entity of such unbridled might seemed implausible. This remains a valid point of consideration for Doom: The Dark Ages, which will need to balance the introduction of allies without diminishing the Slayer’s aura of unmatched strength.
The introduction of allies could open up new narrative opportunities. By having comrades to interact with, the game could delve deeper into the Doom Slayer’s personal motivations, adding layers to his crusade to save humanity from demonic obliteration. The grandeur of medieval-style warfare might be best captured by pitting armies head-to-head, rather than isolating the protagonist as a solitary warrior waging a one-man war.
However, a word of caution: while allies can enrich the story, the game’s team must ensure these companions don’t outshine the Slayer or detract from the core power fantasy. As long as Doom: The Dark Ages maintains this balance and avoids scenarios where our hero needs saving from his allies, it should stay true to the franchise’s spirit.
Ultimately, Doom: The Dark Ages stands poised to expand the Doom saga in both story and scale, promising an exhilarating mix of new elements alongside the classic, heart-pounding thrill that fans cherish.
