"Doom: Dark Ages" combat system, heroic kill experience innovation

　　Microsoft's Hong Kong Office held a media trial event "DOOM: The Dark Ages" released by Bethesda Software and developed by id Software. As a restart of the "DOOM" series, this work not only depicts the origin story of the game's protagonist "Doom Slayer", but also launches a number of new gameplay, which makes players look forward to it.

　　"Doom: Dark Ages" is scheduled to be released on May 15, and players will have the opportunity to experience this diverse shooting game on PC, PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. The game revolves around the core gameplay of using various weapons and mechanisms to defeat a large number of demons, emphasizing a fast fighting rhythm and a seamless offensive experience. All weapons need to be loaded almost without loading, bullets and recovery items can be recovered by shooting down enemies and melee attacks, allowing players to always maintain an offensive state, which is one of the most charming features of the Doom series.

　　In the trial event, game executive producer Marty Stratton and game director Hugo Martin introduced several highlights of the game to participants through video. This work is a prequel to Doom (released in 2016) and Doom: Eternal (released in 2020), focusing on a single-player campaign mode, providing a revolutionary first-person shooting experience.

A highlight in the game is the introduction of "Shield Saw". As a weapon to replace flame launchers and chainsaws, the shield saw can not only be used as a defense, but the serrated part around it can also pierce the enemy, and also enable scene mechanisms. When an enemy attacks, the player presses the right button to block with a shield. After successfully resisting the attack, it can trigger the enemy's pause, thereby conducting a high-power counterattack. If a player fights an enemy wearing metal armor, the metal parts will begin to turn red after attack. After further attack, it can trigger an explosion and smash the enemy in one fell swoop.

　　In addition, the melee attack system has also undergone comprehensive innovation. The game no longer sets special heroic kills, but combines ordinary melee attacks with resource management to enhance the operability of the game. Unlike the previous game, melee attacks can be restored freely through time and combat behavior, and can be stored up to three times, and the damage caused can drop weapons and bullets.

This work also introduces new weapons, such as the "Bone Crusher", which can use enemy corpses as bullets. This unique design enhances the fun and combat pleasure of the game. When facing enemies, players can flexibly use different weapons to fight, improving the overall gaming experience.

　　"Doom: Dark Ages" not only innovated in combat design, but also has a rich plot. Across hell and heaven, the game will show the conspiracy and betrayal between the gods and the kings, creating a fascinating story background. All story clues and important characters will be recorded in the in-game "encyclopedia", increasing the interaction between players and the game.

　　The current price of the standard version of the game is NT$2,099 (about RMB 459), and the luxury version is NT$2,999 (about RMB 669). The luxury version includes additional download content, digital art soundtrack, and styling packages. The game supports Xbox Game Pass service, and members can experience it on the release date.

　　Overall, this work is not only a new chapter in the Doom series, but also a friendly introductory work for new players. As the official release approaches, players' expectations for "Doom: Dark Ages" continue to heat up, and the game is like a feast of vision and senses, which is impatient.