Combat Strategies for Completing Doom: The Dark Ages

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Doom: The Dark Ages invites players to explore its detailed world, filled with hidden gems, collectibles, and rich lore. However, it’s clear why you’re really here: to unleash some serious chaos! While some may think playing a Doom title just involves pointing and shooting, there’s much more at play in this FPS. The game features intricate mechanics that keep the action engaging.

Your arsenal consists of diverse weapons, each with unique features tailored to counter specific enemies. You’ll also find dynamic upgrades, parry mechanics, shield throws, and a variety of melee options. This complexity means players must adapt their strategies, especially as swarms of undead foes attack from every direction. Newcomers, whom we like to call “Doomcomers,” may find this combat style quite different from what they’re used to. Luckily, this guide will provide both seasoned players and new recruits with essential tips.

Master the Combat Arenas

While the urge to dive headfirst into battle is strong, doing so without a strategy can quickly lead to being overwhelmed. To maintain control, try moving along the edges of each combat arena, picking off enemies as you go. This approach allows you to manage tougher foes by keeping them centered while dealing with smaller pests on the move. In Doom: The Dark Ages, always prioritize mobility.

As you circle the arena, focus on eliminating Shield Soldiers, Imps, and other weaker enemies that might distract you from bigger threats like Hell Knights and Mancubuses. This is also a good time to scout for armor and health packs. Once you’ve cleared out the distractions, take on the major threats.

Many battles come in waves, so be prepared to revisit your strategy and make multiple circuits around the area.

Using the Parry Mechanic

Parrying the Hell Knights attacks in Doom The Dark Ages.

If you’re concerned that Doom might have turned into a game like Sekiro, fear not! The parry mechanic is quite forgiving. Attacks that can be parried glow green, and you just need to press the parry button before the attack lands. Even on tougher settings, the timing window is generous—just stay close to trigger the parry successfully.

You can adjust the parry window in the settings. A wider window allows you to parry earlier.

The parry is essential in this game, especially against aggressive foes like the Hell Knight, whose attacks you can counter with a well-timed parry. The iconic Cyberdemon’s close-range attacks can also be deflected. Mastering this mechanic will give you the upper hand against hordes of demons.

You can use your shield to block regular attacks, but this won’t deflect or counter them. Blocking too frequently can leave you vulnerable, so use it wisely.

Use Shockwaves to Eliminate Weak Enemies

The Doom Slayer rising after beaming down from above in Doom The Dark Ages.

Throughout battles, you will encounter numerous weaker foes alongside formidable threats. Ignoring them can lead to untimely defeats, but there are ways to create shockwaves that can clear out weaker demons.

Two effective methods include parrying green energy attacks and executing shield rushes. Utilize these regularly, especially in crowded areas, to maximize their benefits.

If you jump down from an elevated spot, you’ll create a shockwave upon landing, instantly taking out weaker foes. Additionally, jumping from a sprint grants extra height, allowing you to create the same impact from lower elevations. Use the verticality in arenas to surprise your enemies.

Leverage the Parry to Land Headshots

Using the parry's time stop effect to aim a shot in Doom The Dark Ages.

The parry is vital in The Dark Ages not just for deflecting attacks but for its time-slowing capability. Each successful parry gives you a brief moment—about half a second—to aim your next shot, making it easier to score headshots. Like many great FPS titles, headshots are rewarded, and this mechanic all but guarantees them once you get the timing right. Combine this with your powerful Impaler and you’ll inflict serious damage!

Use Bottlenecks to Manage Enemy Waves

Using a large doorway as a bottleneck in Doom The Dark Ages.

Doom: The Dark Ages encourages quick movement through its arenas, but when facing large groups of enemies, funnel them into narrow spaces whenever possible.

You have various AOE (Area of Effect) damage options, including skills with your accelerator gun or shield charge. A narrow entrance can become your best friend, especially when combined with the combat shotgun—you won’t miss when enemies crowd a tight corridor.

There are also places where demons simply won’t follow you. Taking this opportunity allows you to attack foes without risk. In a game where it’s 1 against 1000, every advantage counts!

Exploit Shield Soldiers

Exploding a group of Shield Soldiers in Doom The Dark Ages.

Typically, shield-carrying enemies can be a nuisance. However, in Doom: The Dark Ages, they offer strategic advantages. Shield Soldiers come in two varieties: those with metal shields and those with plasma shields.

Rather than fearing them, see them as walking explosives. You can overload plasma shields with plasma weapons, and throwing your shield at a metal shield will cause it to explode.

The Accelerator and Cycler Plasma Rifles are excellent for heating metal shields, making them effective against both types of Shield Soldiers.

This tactic is surprisingly effective. Igniting one shield will cause nearby Shield Soldiers to detonate as well, taking out weaker foes while damaging stronger enemies. Considering that you often face Shield Soldiers in waves, they are a remarkable asset for thinning the horde. When you spot a Shield Soldier, prioritize taking them out!

You will meet Shield Soldiers before you gain the ability to throw your shield, but you’ll unlock this skill early in the second stage.

Preparing to use the Shield Charge attack in Doom The Dark Ages.

Your Shield Charge attack is a powerful tool for both damage and crowd control. It can create shockwaves that eliminate weaker demons, but it also serves as a way to reposition yourself during swarm attacks. By targeting a distant enemy, you can escape sticky situations, and it helps you reach higher levels by charging at elevated foes.

Additionally, the Shield Charge grants you invulnerability against projectiles, allowing you to cross a battlefield filled with bullets without taking damage.

Unlike Glory Kills, which do not provide invulnerability, using the Shield Charge wisely can mean the difference between life and death.

Diverse Attacks are Crucial for Success

Shooting the spider demon with a rocket launcher in Doom The Dark Ages.

You’ll have plenty of weapons at your disposal, but don’t rely solely on gunplay. Each encounter is designed to integrate your parry, shield charge, shield throw, melee attacks, and firearms.

If you find your ammo running low, it’s a clear sign that you’re overly focused on shooting. Instead, use your guns to bridge the gaps between bigger attacks, which often involve shield charges and melee combos. Not only do these techniques help with ammo replenishment, but successful hits can stun enemies, leaving them open for Gory Kills that restore your health. Keep the cycle going, mix in some super jumps for shockwaves, and you’ll be in great shape.