Doom's Combat Gets Amped by Metal's Evolution

Doom's enduring legacy is inextricably linked to its metal soundtrack. The series' iconic imagery of fire, skulls, and demonic entities mirrors the aesthetic of bands like Iron Maiden. This symbiotic relationship between Doom's gameplay and its musical backdrop has evolved over three decades, mirroring the evolution of metal subgenres.

The original 1993 Doom, influenced by bands such as Pantera and Alice in Chains, featured a thrash metal soundtrack. Tracks like "Untitled" (E3M1: Hell Keep) bear a striking resemblance to Pantera's "Mouth of War." The overall score, reminiscent of Metallica and Anthrax, propelled players through the game's fast-paced action. Bobby Prince's composition remains a timeless classic, perfectly complementing the game's intense gunplay.

Doom 3 (2004), a departure into survival horror, necessitated a different sonic approach. While Trent Reznor's involvement was initially considered, Chris Vrenna and Clint Walsh ultimately composed the soundtrack, drawing inspiration from Tool's atmospheric and progressive style. Doom 3's score, with its unconventional time signatures and soundscapes, perfectly matched the game's slower, more deliberate pace.

Following a period of development challenges, the 2016 Doom reboot revitalized the franchise. Mick Gordon's groundbreaking soundtrack, a blend of djent and other extreme metal subgenres, became instantly iconic. The heart-pounding rhythms synchronized perfectly with the game's frenetic combat.

Doom Eternal (2020), while still featuring Gordon's influence, incorporated a more metalcore sound, reflecting the trends of the late 2010s and early 2020s. The soundtrack, while heavy, felt slightly less intense than its predecessor, mirroring the game's inclusion of platforming and puzzle elements.

Doom: The Dark Ages presents a fascinating new chapter. Early glimpses suggest a soundtrack that blends elements of past and present metal, reflecting the game's unique blend of classic Doom combat with new mechanics. Finishing Move's composition draws inspiration from bands like Knocked Loose, incorporating both crushing breakdowns and thrash-inspired elements. The soundtrack's adaptability is crucial, given the game's varied gameplay, from intense close-quarters combat to aerial battles on winged beasts.

The Dark Ages' gameplay, with its emphasis on close-range combat and the use of mechs and mythological creatures, represents a significant evolution for the series. This evolution parallels the experimentation within modern metal music, incorporating influences from various subgenres and styles.

The upcoming release of Doom: The Dark Ages promises an exciting fusion of classic Doom gameplay and innovative mechanics, complemented by a soundtrack that promises to be as groundbreaking as the game itself. The combination of intense combat and a dynamic soundtrack positions The Dark Ages to potentially become another landmark entry in the Doom franchise. The anticipation for a new, potentially favorite metal album accompanying the May release is palpable.