Doom's enduring legacy is inextricably linked to its metal soundtrack. From the initial thrash metal influences of the 1993 original to the modern metalcore of Doom Eternal, the series' sonic landscape has mirrored its gameplay evolution.
The original Doom's soundtrack, heavily influenced by bands like Pantera and Alice in Chains, established a template of high-octane energy perfectly complementing the fast-paced gameplay. The thrash metal influences, reminiscent of Metallica and Anthrax, drove players through the game's environments with relentless intensity. Composer Bobby Prince's score remains iconic, perfectly synced with the game's iconic gunplay.
Doom: The Dark Ages - Gameplay Screenshots
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Doom 3's shift towards survival horror necessitated a different sonic approach. While Trent Reznor's involvement was initially considered, Chris Vrenna and Clint Walsh ultimately crafted a score reminiscent of Tool, with complex time signatures and unsettling soundscapes that mirrored the game's atmosphere.
The 2016 Doom reboot marked a triumphant return to the series' frenetic pace, with Mick Gordon's groundbreaking soundtrack incorporating djent elements, creating a visceral and unforgettable listening experience. Doom Eternal, while also featuring Gordon's work, leaned further into metalcore, reflecting the prevailing trends of the late 2010s and early 2020s.
While Doom Eternal is critically acclaimed, its more refined sound is a departure from the raw energy of its predecessor. This mirrors the evolution of metalcore itself, with some preferring the earlier, less polished works of bands like Architects.
Doom: The Dark Ages presents a fascinating new chapter. Early previews suggest a soundtrack that blends classic thrash influences with modern heavy metal elements, mirroring the game's unique blend of classic Doom combat and new mechanics. The slower, more deliberate pace of combat, incorporating mechs and mythological creatures, requires a soundtrack that is both brutally heavy and dynamically versatile. The influence of bands like Knocked Loose is evident in the previewed tracks.
The Dark Ages' gameplay, with its emphasis on close-quarters combat and large-scale encounters, promises a thrilling experience. The game’s evolution parallels the experimentation within modern metal, incorporating elements from various subgenres. The combination of brutal heaviness and dynamic shifts in tempo promises a soundtrack as innovative and exciting as the gameplay itself. The potential for a new iconic metal album accompanying Doom: The Dark Ages is high.
