DOOM: The Dark Ages is another major and recent release for Xbox, though it’s not limited to just next-gen consoles.
The game has been out for a while now, and everyone has already had their opinion, yes. However, in retrospect, with a detailed comparison with the previous games of the series, not everyone has had time to speak out yet.
That includes us.
So, the reaction to DOOM: The Dark Ages has split the base right down the middle. Like, some see it as a breath of fresh air. Others, however, feel the series is drifting further from its FPS roots – sure, it’s still pretty fast, razor-sharp, and technically good…
But.
…Is this what we want from DOOM?
Why DOOM: The Dark Ages Feels So Different from Previous Titles
The biggest shift in The Dark Ages is that shooting now takes a backseat to melee engages. Thus, instead of being the core focus, gunplay feels more like a way to build up resources for what really matters: shield bashes and parries.
Whilst DOOM Eternal, a previous game in series, set an incredibly high bar with its gameplay. It was packed with mechanics like the iconic Glory Kills (sadly missing in new DOOM), some fluid movement (double jumps, dashes, the grappling hook), and a diverse bestiary that turned every fight single into a chaotic playground.
And the weapons.
A giant-laser-sword that was back in the Eternal game is cool. No doubts. Alongside classic shooting, there you also had a flamethrower, and grenades – for this or that tactical movements.
And yes, The Dark Ages brings plenty of weapons too. They’re creative, but a bit too situational and seasonal. Even the local BFG-styled crossbow – it looks hella stylish, but still no match to its predecessor.
Nevertheless, the developers are aware that some of the guns in the game feel a little off. They’re trying to make some tweaks, but it’s not always working out. Like, look at one of the recent patches where they nerfed the Super Shotgun: lots of fans weren’t thrilled, yet that’s just how the developers see it.
So, is that the end of the story?
Sure not: we haven’t mentioned that Mick Gordon is no longer part of the franchise. And replacing him was no easy task: his tracks became iconic, and without his style, the difference is… Well, it’s noticeable: Eternal’s music was so intense that players often blasted the volume just to feel every beat and riff.
Uhh, seems that we’re all about the negative. Let’s now talk about somewhat more positive. The destruction system, for instance. Unlike Eternal, here you can smash everything – from just tiny structures to massive statues. The overall detail level is insane too: after a fight, chunks litter the ground, and all the levels are practically painted in… You get it.
Oh, and there’s something else that’s pretty exciting.
The optimization, it is.
It’s absolutely fantastic here. The game runs smoothly across all platforms, but Xbox Series X got the most of it. For them, the difference in framerate and stability compared, say, to PS5 Pro, is just dramatical.
You want the details – you may check out the analysis.
Lastly, what can be articulated regarding DOOM 2016?
Well, it’s the game that started off the entire reboot. It’s definitely a great game, even if it feels a little dated by today’s standards. At its core, it’s the classic DOOM experience we all know and love: a fast-paced arena-alike FPS packed with simple puzzles, hidden secrets, and no overly complicated story.
In fact, one could say there’s barely any plot at all.
Sure, it also has way fewer mechanics than Eternal or Dark Ages, yet that doesn’t make it any worse. It’s just a different story compared to its bigger and flashier siblings.
Overall, one DOOM is a discord to another DOOM.
There’s still a lot more on the Xbox if you’re disappointed with the new game. And you won’t believe it: we’re even talking about the iGaming of a kind. If by any chance you are interested in affiliate program casino, check this one out.
