Doom: The Dark Ages – Prepare for Brutal, Melee-Focused Mayhem!

Doom: The Dark Ages is poised to be a polarizing entry in the iconic shooter franchise, potentially dividing long-time fans. Early gameplay impressions suggest a significant departure from the high-octane, speed-focused combat of Doom Eternal. Instead, id Software is emphasizing a more grounded, melee-centric approach, turning the Doom Slayer into an "iron tank" capable of devastating close-quarters combat.

The core of this new combat style revolves around the Doom Slayer's shield. This isn't just a defensive tool; it's the foundation for a dynamic battle flow where defense is the best offense. Players will need to master parrying incoming attacks, reflecting damage back at the demonic horde. Upgrades like buzz saw blades add an offensive dimension, allowing the Slayer to stun and immobilize enemies with Captain America-esque shield throws.

One of the most exciting aspects is the shield-bash, a new traversal mechanic that allows the Slayer to zip across the battlefield, instantly closing the distance and delivering devastating blows. This move, coupled with melee combos, compensates for the reduced emphasis on constant running and gunning, creating a unique rhythm of up-close-and-personal combat. Players can launch themselves toward enemies, bashing smaller demons and dealing significant damage to larger foes, creating a fluid and fast-paced experience. This allows players to deliver three-hit punch combos against enemies in the air before slamming into the ground with their shield to splatter half a dozen demons. Then using the parry tool on enemy attacks for devastating results.

Some critics have noted that the highly regarded “glory kills” feature of the past two games will be missed. However, the new focus on melee combo strings might even make up for it.

While the core combat loop seems promising, Doom: The Dark Ages introduces vehicular combat with mixed results. Titanic Atlan robot fights offer fun, rock 'em, sock 'em diversions, although feel relatively slow and a bit repetitive. Dragon-riding levels, however, provide a more dynamic experience, with high-speed chases through dark-fantasy canyons.

The soundtrack, composed by Finishing Move, stays true to the thrash metal spirit of the series but may not reach the heights of Mick Gordon's iconic scores, since id Software and Gordon had a public disagreement over contracts, payment and creative control.

Despite some concerns about the vehicular combat and the sound track; Doom: The Dark Ages appears to be a fresh and brutal take on the Doom formula. The grounded combat, emphasis on melee, and the versatile shield promise a unique and challenging experience for both veteran Doom Slayers and newcomers alike. Expect the game to be released on May 15 for PlayStation 5, Windows PC, and Xbox series X.

Will you embrace the melee-focused madness of Doom: The Dark Ages, or will you yearn for the run-and-gun adrenaline of its predecessors? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

• Bethesda Softworks
• DOOM
• id Software

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