Doom: The Dark Ages – Ray Tracing, Metal Anthems, and Mechs: A Deep Dive

Doom: The Dark Ages is stirring up quite the buzz, and for good reason. The game promises a brutal, medieval twist on the classic demon-slaying formula, blending the familiar adrenaline-pumping action with fresh, innovative mechanics. But beyond the gore and glory, several key aspects are shaping the narrative around this highly anticipated title.

One of the most debated topics is the game's ray tracing requirement. As Samuel Tolbert from Windows Central points out, this isn't just a tech fad; it's a potential game-changer for development.

According to id Software's director of engine technology, Billy Khan, embracing ray tracing significantly cut down development time. By eliminating the need for traditional lighting "baking," the team could make changes on the fly, saving countless hours of work. Tolbert argues that relying on ray tracing isn't just acceptable but "should be expected" at this point, considering its widespread availability in modern hardware.

Adding to the immersive experience is the game's unique blend of metal music. Claire Jackson from Kotaku suggests six albums to perfectly complement the Dark Ages vibe.

She recommends artists like Whitechapel and Orbit Culture, whose planet-destroying drums and riffs align perfectly with the game's atmosphere. "Doom 2016 and Eternal may have sparked a whole new fire under the djent-ier side of metal...but The Dark Ages is slotting into a deep tradition of metal portraying high-fantasy Hell," Jackson writes, highlighting the game's musical departure.

However, not all additions are universally praised. Some critics argue that the mech and dragon sections feel somewhat out of place. As stated in a Polygon review the Atlan sections end up being very barebones and the dragon levels aren't any better. Piloting the Atlan makes you feel like you’re playing a Pacific Rim game and the mech lumbers about the battlefield, destroying bridges and buildings in its way. You mostly use its fists to deal damage, with the occasional stomp attack thrown in.

Piloting the mechanized dragon is where the shoehorning in of The Dark Ages’ melee combat falls apart.

Ultimately, Doom: The Dark Ages seems poised to deliver a visceral and unforgettable experience. Embracing ray tracing allows for stunning visuals and streamlined development. Will these changes solidify its place as a worthy successor in the Doom franchise?

What are your thoughts on the new Doom? Do you think the ray tracing requirement is justified? Share your opinions in the comments below!

• DOOM
• id Software
• ray tracing