Doom The Dark Ages Revamps Gameplay with Shields and Open Maps but Lacks Classic Thrill

Doom: The Dark Ages marks the third entry in the rebooted Doom franchise, following the 2016 reboot and Doom Eternal in 2020. This latest title introduces bold gameplay changes, aiming to expand beyond the traditional fast-paced shooting mechanics that defined its predecessors.

Set before the events of the 2016 reboot, the game places players in the role of the Slayer, also known as Doomguy, who is transported to Argent D'Nur—a realm blending medieval aesthetics with futuristic weaponry. The narrative attempts a dramatic, Game of Thrones-style storyline, but it lacks the emotional pull and depth that fans appreciated in earlier titles.

One of the most significant gameplay innovations is the introduction of a shield mechanic, a departure from the franchise's traditional run-and-gun style. The shield offers multiple functions: defense against powerful enemy attacks, a throwable weapon that can stun or instantly kill weaker foes, a bash for quick dashes and breaking barriers, and a parry system to reflect enemy projectiles.

The arsenal also sees a revamp with mostly new weapons aside from the classic shotgun. Each weapon features alternate fire modes, adding strategic depth and variety. For example, the Shredders transform into the Impaler for high-damage, sniper-like attacks, while the Pulverizer delivers crowd control by spreading bone fragments. Players can upgrade weapons and the shield using in-game resources, tailoring their combat style and enhancing synergy between tools.

Another notable shift is the move toward larger, open maps that encourage exploration and discovery of secrets. Unlike the more linear, room-based levels of previous Doom games, these expansive areas require players to clear multiple zones to progress, blending traditional arena combat with open-world elements.

The game also introduces unique set pieces like riding a dragon or piloting the Atlan mech, which offer fresh combat experiences by combining attack and evasion mechanics. These sequences add variety but are limited to specific levels, providing brief departures from standard gameplay.

Despite these innovations, Doom: The Dark Ages struggles to evoke the adrenaline-fueled excitement that defined the previous reboot entries. The pacing can feel uneven, and the narrative lacks the compelling depth that made players invested in Doomguy's journey. While the action peaks during well-timed combat sequences, there are stretches where the gameplay feels slow or uninspired.

Overall, Doom: The Dark Ages offers a fresh take on a long-standing franchise by integrating new mechanics and larger environments. However, it highlights the challenge of balancing innovation with the core elements that fans cherish. Its release on multiple platforms and availability on Game Pass ensures broad accessibility for players eager to experience this new chapter.