Using Dark Ages Difficulty Sliders to Recreate the ‘Classic Doom’ Experience

Hugo Martin, the director helming the much-anticipated game Doom: The Dark Ages, has been shedding some light on the controversial topic of the game’s new difficulty sliders. These sliders offer players the freedom to customize their gameplay experience by adjusting factors like game speed, projectile dynamics, and enemy behavior. Whether players want a tougher challenge or a more relaxed run, the sliders can be tailored to make the gameplay experience either “super hard or super easy,” as Martin puts it.

Doom: The Dark Ages marks the eighth main installment in the legendary Doom saga. This game dives into the narrative of the iconic Doom Slayer’s origins. Earlier this year, rumors began swirling about the possibility of the game making its debut on the Nintendo Switch 2. Fans are eagerly waiting for more concrete details, which may arrive during the Nintendo Switch 2 showcase on April 2. There’s a buzz of excitement around whether The Dark Ages might either be a launch title or feature in the library of the next-gen console.

In a recent video posted on Doom’s official Twitter, Martin elaborated on the rationale behind these adjustments, explaining that it fits perfectly with id Software’s philosophy. “If we’re going to allow you to slow the game down, we have to enable you to speed the game up,” he expressed, ensuring that both casual and hardcore fans can find their happy place. This year brought enhancements across classic Doom titles, and for those who long for the frantic bullet hell experience of the original games, the sliders in The Dark Ages promise to capture that nostalgic thrill.

Discussing how slower projectiles might deal more damage, Martin illustrated how these settings revive the “shmup” or shoot-em-up vibe that old-school Doom games mastered. He detailed how this addition could amplify the classic three-dimensional bullet hell feel that fans cherish. The medieval-themed game acts as a prequel, and Martin’s hints about potential upcoming prequels suggest a deep dive into the rich lore, making these nods to past games through difficulty settings a neat touch.

Yet, not everyone is sold on the idea. Some in the community have questioned whether these sliders might diminish the challenging combat that defines Doom. Martin has been quick to counter these concerns, emphasizing that while the sliders can simplify things for some, they’re equally capable of cranking the difficulty to new heights. This versatile feature aims to cater to diverse player preferences while preserving the spirit of Doom.

Scheduled for release on May 15, 2025, and published by Bethesda Softworks, Doom: The Dark Ages is shaping up to be an intriguing addition to this storied franchise. Whether you’re a Doom veteran or new to the series, this game promises an experience tailored just for you, keeping the thrill and legacy of Doom alive and kicking.