DOOM: The Dark Ages Guide – 15 Tips and Tricks to Keep in Mind

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In the grim, dark times ahead, I, a gamer, shall be donning the formidable armor of the Doom Slayer, ready to wage war in a twisted medieval realm. Just like every DOOM game, The Dark Ages is brimming with intense, fast-paced action, and this time around, there are some fresh new elements that breathe new life into the series. These changes, while subtly altering the gameplay formula we’ve grown accustomed to, still manage to preserve the raw, visceral essence of DOOM.

To help you navigate through these changes smoothly and get a better grip on the game from the start, I’d like to share some tips and tricks that will prove useful as you dive into DOOM: The Dark Ages. Stay tuned!

FIND YOUR DIFFICULTY

In an attempt to cater to a wider audience, id Software is introducing more customization options in DOOM: The Dark Ages, following the intense challenge of DOOM Eternal. Key features include adjustable difficulty sliders for aspects like parry windows, damage taken and dealt, resource values, game speed, and many others. While maintaining an element of toughness is crucial to enhance the combat experience, players are encouraged to select settings that best suit their comfort level and enjoyment.

EXPLORE

The spirit of discovery has always been integral to gameplay in DOOM, but The Dar Ages expands this concept to an unprecedented extent. Among its 22 stages, many are sprawling, semi-open terrains offering ample space for investigation and hidden extras. Our recommendation? Spend time delving into these levels thoroughly. While rushing through may seem appealing when you’re caught up in the moment, it will result in missing out on a wealth of optional resources or treasures. By the way, don’t forget to keep an eye out for resources…!

FIND GOLD

You’ll definitely want to accumulate as much gold as you can because it’s an essential resource in The Dark Ages level. This valuable currency is used to buy upgrades for Slayer’s tools and weapons, making it a vital resource to find. Gold can be found in various places like chests, secret areas, and hidden pathways throughout the game. Be sure to keep a keen eye out as there are numerous spots where gold has been hidden!

UPGRADE YOUR COMBAT SHOTGUN

In the role of an id Software game and a DOOM title, it’s no wonder that DOOM: The Dark Ages features an extraordinary shotgun. This combat shotgun is the Doom Slayer’s initial weapon in the game, and given its frequent use during gameplay, it’s wise to prioritize shotgun enhancements from the beginning since you’ll likely rely on it more than many other weapons.

UPGRADE YOUR SHIELD SAW

In the game DOOM: The Dark Ages, the Shield Saw is another essential tool for the Doom Slayer. Given its significance, it’s wise to start upgrading it early. As you progress through the game, parries, blocks, and other shield-related moves become crucial parts of your combat repertoire in The Dark Ages. Early investment in upgrades that enhance these skills will prove particularly beneficial.

THROWING THE SHIELD SAW

In the world of DOOM, the Shield Saw serves not only as a protective device but also as an offensive weapon. Attached to its edges is a circular chainsaw that can be hurled at adversaries and then retrieved, with mastering the proper timing and positioning of these throws potentially changing the course of a battle. If you target a bigger enemy, the shield will embed itself in their body temporarily. Align it correctly, and it will cleave through any enemies it encounters as it returns to your grasp.

SHIELD BASH

Mastering the Shield Bash move is crucial since it’s employed frequently in gameplay. Fortunately, the game provides early instruction on this technique, enabling you to swiftly approach enemies and deliver a stunning melee strike that momentarily disorients them. Moreover, when used tactically, the shield bash can also serve as an effective evasion maneuver. Simply execute it against distant opponents while trying to create some space between yourself and another adversary, and it will instantly move you away.

PARRYING

In DOOM: The Dark Ages, although the Shield Saw boasts offensive abilities, its main role is defensive. Mastering the art of parrying incoming attacks is essential for gameplay success, and it’s best to start practicing this skill from the beginning. Luckily, the game offers numerous chances for you to improve your parrying techniques, so don’t miss out on these opportunities and make the most of them.

DODGING PROJECTILES

In DOOM: The Dark Ages, they’ve cleverly borrowed some elements from the original DOOM’s gameplay, one of which I find particularly engaging is the use of slow-moving projectile attacks that require quick maneuvering to avoid. Being mindful of your environment and ensuring you dodge incoming projectiles is vital. However, you can also block and counter these attacks skillfully. Time your counterattack correctly, and you’ll send the projectile back towards the enemy who fired it.

SWITCHING WEAPONS

In DOOM: The Dark Ages, changing between weapons frequently is both entertaining and tactically smart. Each weapon possesses unique characteristics, and various enemies react differently to each one. Consequently, adjusting your weapon selection based on the situation can be crucial.

ENEMY WEAKNESSES

Indeed, The Dark Ages gameplay maintains the crucial emphasis on strategic combat that’s inherent in DOOM, despite numerous changes. For instance, certain enemies are weak against thrown shields or can be defeated with weapons like the Accelerator to trigger a reaction chain. Larger groups may respond better to fire from the Skullcrusher, while some foes require specific attacks to breach their armor before you can inflict significant damage. In essence, The Dark Ages frequently introduces monsters that demand unique and strategic approaches for defeat- so approach with caution rather than charging in recklessly.

GLORY KILLS

In DOOM: The Dark Ages, glory kills have been made faster and smoother within gameplay, yet they remain essential. Not only do these glory kills function as gruesome final blows, but they also consistently provide health boosts, making them even more indispensable. So, when you notice the glory kill prompt over a weakened foe, don’t pass it up.

MELEE ATTACKS

DOOM: The Dark Ages introduces close-combat moves to the battlefield, allowing the Doom Slayer to not just rely on his gun skills but also engage in brutal, hand-to-hand fights using an electric gauntlet, a flail, and other weapons. It’s crucial not to overlook these options, as they can easily be overshadowed in a shooter game. Not only are melee attacks powerful, certain enemy types are weak against them, while they also provide ammo drops, which is always beneficial.

PLAY AGGRESSIVE

In essence, Doom: The Dark Ages emphasizes a combative approach, encouraging players to engage actively rather than maintaining a safe distance from adversaries. While it’s instinctive to maintain a distance, the Doom Slayer thrives in The Dark Ages when you’re up close and personal with enemies. This involves anticipating their attacks and skillfully deflecting them, all while unleashing every weapon at your disposal against them.

REPLAY LEVELS

DOOM: The Dark Ages stands out as a significantly longer game compared to its predecessors, and it doesn’t skimp on replay value either. Buried within its levels, particularly the larger ones, are numerous secrets, collectibles, concealed areas, and other hidden treasures. Re-exploring these levels in search of what you might have missed during your initial playthrough can be an enjoyable experience. If you’re seeking a reason to continue playing the game even after the credits roll, this is certainly one of them.

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2025-05-13 03:56