The highly anticipated sequel to DOOM Eternal, DOOM: The Dark Ages, is just around the corner, and thanks to the team at Bethesda ANZ, we have had the opportunity to play the game before its official release.

Serving as a prequel to the 2016 DOOM game, DOOM: The Dark Ages focuses on the conflict between the Sentinels and Hell. The developers at id Software have made significant improvements to both gameplay and storytelling, making them top priorities in this instalment. Unlike its predecessor, DOOM: The Dark Ages presents its narrative through fully voiced cinematic cutscenes rather than having the player sift through numerous log entries to understand the lore.

While some core elements and gameplay mechanics from previous DOOM games make a return, there are also new tools and mechanics that make combat even more brutal. However, the ability to double jump, air dash, and side dash has been removed. The developers decided that DOOM: The Dark Ages should feature a “stand your ground” style of gameplay, and although this may seem strange at first, I quickly adapted to these new mechanics.

The game begins with linear sections, serving as a perfect introduction to the combat, level design, and the new Shield Saw. Initially facing off against simple grunt-style enemies, the difficulty level increases as you progress, requiring you to utilise everything you have learned in order to defeat them.

DOOM: The Dark Ages offers a plethora of new weapons and abilities to play with, including the most prominent new tool in the DOOM Slayer’s arsenal, the Shield Saw. This versatile weapon can block projectiles, shield-bash enemies, and even solve environmental puzzles to progress through levels and unlock certain areas.

The game also introduces a new parry system, allowing players to use their shield to deflect green attacks from enemies, stunning them and creating an opportunity for a counterattack. Some enemies may require you to weaken them with gunfire before using your shield, while others are immune to weapons and can only be defeated with melee punches.

Timing is crucial in this game, as using the right move at the right time is essential for success. Upgrades for your shield and weapons can be obtained by collecting runes or gold throughout the game, which can then be used at upgrade stations to improve and modify your armour, health, shield, and weapons.

The upgrade system is straightforward and streamlined, making it easier to complete more challenging objectives, although some may still prove to be quite difficult. As DOOM: The Dark Ages focuses heavily on close-quarters combat, two new melee weapons, the Mace and Flail, have been added.

Each of these new weapons has its own advantages and disadvantages, providing players with new ways to approach fights and create brutal combos. Another new addition to the game is the ability to pilot a giant DOOM Slayer mech, allowing players to take on the massive demons that were previously only seen in the background. The mech combat involves powerful punches, dodges, and parries, followed by taking control of a massive weapon and mowing down hordes of enemies.

Additionally, players can also ride their own dragon in the game. These sections involve controlling and fighting from the back of the dragon, flying around to take down demon Hell Carriers. This involves destroying turrets on the sides and the main gun on top before landing on the carrier to finish the job on foot. While these sections were enjoyable, they were my least favourite part of the game.

In addition to the linear levels and mech and dragon combat, DOOM: The Dark Ages also features large open levels, similar to battlefields, with various objectives to complete. Some of these objectives can be tough, so I highly recommend utilising the upgrade stations to increase your chances of survival.

Visually, the game does not disappoint. We played on the PlayStation 5, and the game ran flawlessly, with stunning visuals at every turn. The experience was further enhanced by the DualSense controller, which provided haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, making every shot feel impactful.

Of course, a DOOM game would not be complete without mentioning the soundtrack. While Mick Gordon’s score will always hold a special place in my heart, the soundtrack for DOOM: The Dark Ages, created by Finishing Move, is equally impressive. The heavy metal tracks playing in the background as you battle your way through hordes of demons add to the overall intensity of the game.

Once again, id Software has delivered an exceptional game, staying true to the beloved and brutal gameplay style that DOOM fans have come to expect, while also introducing new weapons, abilities, and mechanics. Set to release on May 15th for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, we cannot wait for everyone to experience the thrill of ripping and tearing in DOOM: The Dark Ages.

Written by: MKAU Gaming