In a recent interview with EDGE magazine, developers of Doom: The Dark Ages shared fresh details about the game's gameplay. This time around, the story will take center stage, and the levels will be the largest in the series' history, offering a sandbox-like experience.

Game director Hugo Martin and studio head Marty Stratton provided key highlights from the discussion:

In previous Doom titles, much of the backstory was hidden in text logs, but The Dark Ages will adopt a more straightforward storytelling approach. The atmosphere will evoke a medieval vibe, reducing futuristic elements—even the iconic weapons will receive a design overhaul to fit the new setting.

Doom Dark AgesImage: youtube.com

Like its predecessors, Doom: The Dark Ages will feature distinct levels, but these will be the biggest yet, blending dungeon crawling with open-world exploration. Chapters are divided into "acts," starting with narrow dungeons before transitioning to expansive areas. Additionally, players can control both a dragon and a mech, adding variety to the gameplay.

A new addition to the Slayer’s arsenal is a shield that doubles as a chainsaw. It can be thrown at enemies and reacts differently depending on whether it hits flesh, armor, energy shields, or other materials. The shield also enables a dash attack, allowing players to close distance quickly. Since double jumps and roars from earlier games are absent, this mechanic will play a crucial role in battlefield mobility. The shield also supports parrying, with adjustable difficulty settings and precise timing windows.

Parrying acts as a "reload" for melee attacks, while melee combat restores ammunition for primary weapons—similar to the chainsaw mechanic in DOOM Eternal Melee options include a fast-paced gauntlet, a balanced shield, and a slower mace. 

Main image: x.com