Evolving the Classic Formula Remember the days when Doom was all about blistering action and relentless demon-slaying? Doom Eternal, building on the 2016 reboot’s strong foundation, took things a step further with strategic complexity and rapid-fire decision-making. Doom: The Dark Ages plays off that evolution by not simply retreating to the basics but by reintroducing a satisfying power fantasy that infuses classic simplicity with a strategic twist. It’s like your favorite old-school fighter that’s been hitting the gym—strong, a bit more refined, and ready to take on legions of hellspawn in ways that feel both familiar and dazzlingly new.
The Shield: Your New Best Friend (and Weapon!) The biggest surprise here isn’t a new gun or a flashy power-up—it’s the shield. Yup, Doom: The Dark Ages gives you a permanent defensive sidekick on your arm, letting you parry enemy attacks and block incoming damage like a pro. But don’t be fooled by its defensive roots; this shield is more than just a barrier. Think of it as your multi-tool in the heat of battle—it soaks up damage, redirects attacks with timely blocks and parries, and even transforms into a devastating offense. Instead of Doom Eternal’s nimble air dash, you now have a long-reaching shield bash to close the gap or lock onto distant targets, launching you into foes to dish out some serious obliteration. It’s a twist that revitalizes the combat choreography of Doom, making the gameplay feel fresh yet true to the series’ over-the-top essence.
Rhythmic Combat and Satisfying Counters Managing your demons is still crucial to keeping your health and ammo in check, but here the gameplay refocuses on a delightful rhythm of parrying and melee attacks. Instead of frenetic gunplay alone, you’re encouraged to mix in powerful melee moves—each precisely tied to refresh timers that you can shrink with well-timed parries. There’s something particularly gratifying about charging headfirst into a towering demon, deflecting its blows, and then unleashing a crushing combo while it’s dazed. Each parry and subsequent counter-attack isn’t just visually stunning; it makes every skirmish feel weighty and impactful, as if you’re choreographing your own brutal ballet.
Strengths, Weaknesses, and Who Should Jump In Doom: The Dark Ages shines with its fresh spin on combat—mixing solid defense with aggressive offense in ways that feel natural and exhilarating. The introduction of the shield adds a layer of tactical depth that enriches every encounter, making battles not just about rapid-fire mayhem but also about smart positioning and timing. If you’re a fan of embracing the chaotic thrill of demon-slaying but also crave a bit of strategic finesse, this game will feel like it was made just for you.
On the flip side, if you’re more into the relentless, unyielding action of Doom Eternal’s emphasis on constant movement and weapon juggling, this more measured, rhythmic approach might take a short adjustment. Thankfully, the challenge is part of the fun—each battle invites you to test your mettle and redefine what it means to be a modern Slayer in a demon-infested world.
Visuals and Overall Experience While the review doesn’t dive deep into the graphics, Doom’s signature style is there—gritty, intense, and unmistakably familiar. The ambiance amps up the tension, complementing the innovative gameplay mechanics without losing that raw, brutal charm we’ve come to expect from the franchise.
If you’re itching for a game that marries the simplicity of old-school demon destruction with a modern twist that demands both aggression and tactical play, Doom: The Dark Ages is your ticket to an unforgettable, action-packed ride.
Original review courtesy of GameSpot.
Source: This article was inspired by content from Gamespot . All images belong to their respective owners.