Doom's iconic blend of demonic imagery and brutal gameplay has always had a strong connection to metal music. From its thrash metal roots to its modern explorations of metalcore and beyond, the series' soundtrack has evolved alongside its gameplay, mirroring the genre's own transformations. The original 1993 Doom, heavily influenced by bands like Pantera and Alice in Chains, established a driving, thrash-inspired score that perfectly complemented the game's fast-paced action. Tracks like "Untitled" (E3M1: Hell Keep) even borrowed directly from Pantera's "Mouth of War," showcasing the strong musical influence.
The original Doom's soundtrack, with its thrash metal influences reminiscent of Metallica and Anthrax, propelled players through Mars's corridors, its urgency mirroring the game's intense gunplay. Composer Bobby Prince's work remains a timeless classic, perfectly capturing the rhythm of Doom's unforgettable combat. This energetic style continued for over a decade, until the 2004 release of Doom 3.
Doom: The Dark Ages - Gameplay Screenshots
Doom 3, a survival horror-inspired departure, necessitated a shift in musical direction. While Trent Reznor's involvement was initially considered, Chris Vrenna and Clint Walsh ultimately composed the score, drawing inspiration from Tool's atmospheric and complex sound. Doom 3's main theme, with its unconventional time signatures and soundscapes, perfectly complemented the game's slower, more deliberate pace and sci-fi horror setting. Although a commercial success, Doom 3's design is now seen as an outlier in the series.
Following a period of development challenges, the 2016 Doom reboot marked a triumphant return to form. Mick Gordon's groundbreaking soundtrack, a blend of heavy metal and industrial sounds, perfectly captured the game's frenetic energy. The album, a near-perfect djent masterpiece, is considered one of the greatest video game soundtracks ever created. Its impact is so significant that it's almost impossible to imagine playing Doom (2016) without it. The subsequent Doom Eternal (2020), while also featuring Gordon's work, saw a shift towards metalcore, reflecting the prevailing trends of the late 2010s. The soundtrack, while still heavy, feels slightly less raw than its predecessor, mirroring the game's inclusion of platforming and puzzle elements.
Doom: The Dark Ages presents a fascinating new chapter. Early previews suggest a soundtrack that draws inspiration from both classic and modern metal, reflecting the game's blend of classic Doom combat with new mechanics. The slower pace and emphasis on melee combat, utilizing a shield, suggest a soundtrack that can shift between crushing heaviness and more agile, dynamic sections. Influences from bands like Knocked Loose, known for their intense breakdowns, are evident, alongside elements reminiscent of classic thrash metal. The inclusion of mechs and mythological creatures expands the possibilities for the soundtrack, mirroring the evolution of modern metal's experimentation with diverse influences.
Doom: The Dark Ages promises to build upon the series' strengths while pushing boundaries. The combination of intense combat and a potentially groundbreaking soundtrack makes it a highly anticipated title. While gunplay remains central, the soundtrack will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the overall experience. The glimpses revealed so far suggest a truly exciting evolution for the franchise, potentially delivering a new favorite metal album alongside a phenomenal gaming experience.
