Doom's enduring legacy is intrinsically linked to its metal soundtrack. The series' iconic imagery of fire, skulls, and demonic creatures mirrors the aesthetic of bands like Iron Maiden. This symbiotic relationship between Doom and metal has evolved alongside the game's gameplay, spanning various metal subgenres over three decades. From its thrash metal origins, Doom's musical landscape has progressed to the metalcore sounds of Doom: The Dark Ages.
The original 1993 Doom drew inspiration from late 80s and early 90s metal giants such as Pantera and Alice in Chains, evident in tracks like "Untitled" (E3M1: Hell Keep), which echoes Pantera's "Mouth of War." The overall soundtrack, composed by Bobby Prince, embraced thrash metal's energy, mirroring the game's fast-paced action. This blend of speed and aggression perfectly captured the essence of Doom's iconic gunplay.
Doom 3 (2004), a departure into survival horror, necessitated a shift in musical style. While Trent Reznor's involvement was initially considered, Chris Vrenna (formerly of Nine Inch Nails) and Clint Walsh ultimately composed the soundtrack, drawing inspiration from Tool's atmospheric and complex sound. Doom 3's score, with its unconventional time signatures, perfectly complemented the game's slower, more deliberate pace.
The 2016 Doom reboot marked a return to the series' frenetic energy. Mick Gordon's groundbreaking soundtrack, incorporating djent elements, became synonymous with the game's intense gunplay. The album's impact was immense, arguably surpassing the original's. Doom Eternal (2020), while also featuring Gordon's work, incorporated more metalcore influences, reflecting the prevailing trends of the late 2010s and early 2020s. The soundtrack, though still heavy, felt slightly less raw than its predecessor, mirroring the game's inclusion of platforming and puzzle elements.
While personal preferences vary, Doom: The Dark Ages presents a fascinating evolution. The gameplay, with its emphasis on close-quarters combat and the use of a shield, suggests a return to the original Doom's design philosophy, albeit on a grander scale. The soundtrack, composed by Finishing Move, draws inspiration from both classic and contemporary metal, hinting at a powerful and versatile soundscape. The inclusion of mechs and mythological creatures expands the series' scope, reflecting the experimentation seen in modern metal music. The influence of Knocked Loose's heavy breakdowns and thrash-inspired elements suggests a potent blend of old and new.
The synergy between Doom's gameplay and its musical accompaniment remains a defining characteristic of the series. The Dark Ages promises to continue this tradition, creating a soundtrack that complements its unique blend of classic and innovative elements. The potential for a new benchmark in metal-infused gaming soundtracks is high, making the May release eagerly anticipated.
