Doom's enduring legacy is inextricably linked to the evolution of metal music. From its thrash metal origins, the franchise's soundtracks have mirrored its gameplay innovations across three decades. The visceral imagery and relentless action have always found a perfect counterpart in the aggressive energy of various metal subgenres.
The original 1993 Doom, heavily influenced by bands like Pantera and Alice in Chains, showcased a driving thrash metal score. Tracks like "Untitled" (E3M1: Hell Keep) even borrowed heavily from Pantera's "Mouth of War." Bobby Prince's composition perfectly captured the fast-paced, brutal gameplay, a timeless pairing that defined the series' early identity.
Doom: The Dark Ages - Gameplay Screenshots
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Doom 3 (2004), a departure into survival horror, demanded a different sonic landscape. While Trent Reznor's involvement was initially considered, Chris Vrenna and Clint Walsh ultimately crafted a soundtrack reminiscent of Tool's Lateralus, reflecting the game's slower, more atmospheric style. Though a commercial success, Doom 3's design is now viewed as an outlier in the franchise.
The 2016 reboot marked a triumphant return to form. Mick Gordon's djent-influenced score, a powerhouse of sub-bass and white noise, perfectly complemented the game's frenetic pace. Tracks like "BFG Division" became instantly iconic, arguably surpassing the original soundtrack's impact.
Doom Eternal (2020), while also featuring Gordon's work, saw a more collaborative approach, resulting in a metalcore-infused soundtrack that, while still heavy, felt slightly less raw than its predecessor. This mirrored the game's inclusion of more platforming and puzzle elements.
Doom: The Dark Ages presents a fascinating evolution. Early previews suggest a soundtrack influenced by both classic and modern metal, reflecting the game's blend of classic Doom combat with new, larger-scale mechanics. The slower, more deliberate pace hints at a soundtrack that's both brutally heavy and dynamically versatile, incorporating elements reminiscent of Knocked Loose's seismic breakdowns and thrash metal's frenetic energy.
The Dark Ages' expanded combat, featuring mechs and monstrous creatures, suggests a soundtrack that will match the game's ambition. This evolution parallels modern metal's experimentation, blending diverse influences to create a unique sonic identity. The Dark Ages promises a thrilling combination of classic Doom action and innovative gameplay, with a soundtrack poised to become another metal masterpiece.
