As fans eagerly anticipate the release of DOOM: The Dark Ages, many are revisiting the classic DOOM and DOOM 2 games. The developers, meanwhile, have been hard at work enhancing the gaming experience for these iconic titles. A recent update for the DOOM + DOOM 2 compilation has significantly improved the technical aspects of the games, bringing a host of new features and optimizations.
One of the standout additions is the support for multiplayer modifications. Compatible mods, created using Vanilla DOOM, DeHackEd, MBF21, or BOOM, can now be integrated seamlessly. This update allows all players to pick up items during cooperative play, enhancing the team experience. Moreover, a new observer mode has been introduced, enabling players who are dead to watch the action and wait to be revived. The multiplayer network code has also been optimized for smoother gameplay. Additionally, the mod loader now supports more than just the first 100+ mods a player subscribes to, offering greater flexibility and variety.
Looking ahead to DOOM: The Dark Ages, the developers are focusing on accessibility and customization. Players will have the ability to adjust the aggression of demons through in-game settings, tailoring the experience to their preference. Executive producer Marty Stratton emphasized the team's commitment to making the game as accessible as possible. This approach includes extensive customization options, allowing players to modify enemy damage, difficulty, projectile speed, damage taken, game tempo, aggression level, and parry timing.
Stratton also reassured fans that DOOM: The Dark Ages will be a standalone experience, not requiring prior knowledge of the game's lore to enjoy its narrative. This ensures that both newcomers and long-time fans can dive into the game without any barriers to understanding the story arcs of DOOM: The Dark Ages and DOOM: Eternal.