DOOM's Legacy: Exploring The Dark Ages Inspiration In Modern DOOM Games

Henrik Larsen

5 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Architectural Echoes of the Dark Ages in DOOM

The environments of modern DOOM games aren't just randomly generated hellscapes; they are meticulously crafted to evoke a specific, unsettling atmosphere. This atmosphere is heavily indebted to the architectural styles of the Dark Ages, creating a powerful sense of foreboding and claustrophobia.

Brutalist Aesthetics and Fortifications

Many levels in DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal feature imposing, fortress-like structures reminiscent of medieval castles and fortifications. These aren't just aesthetic choices; they contribute to the game's oppressive atmosphere and create a sense of being trapped within a brutal, inescapable environment.

• Examples: The imposing structures of Argent's facilities in DOOM (2016) resemble fortified castles, while the hellish fortresses in DOOM Eternal echo the brutal architecture of medieval strongholds.
• Image suggestion: A comparison shot showcasing the imposing architecture of a DOOM level next to a picture of a medieval castle. The similarity in the use of imposing stone structures, high walls, and defensive positions will be readily apparent.

Gothic Influences in Level Design

Beyond the brutalist elements, the level design frequently incorporates Gothic influences, characterized by dark, claustrophobic corridors, towering structures, and a pervasive sense of decay. This heightens the sense of dread and emphasizes the verticality so characteristic of both Gothic architecture and modern DOOM.

• Examples: The labyrinthine corridors and towering spires found throughout both games, particularly in the more hellish levels, strongly evoke the atmosphere of Gothic cathedrals and castles. The use of shadows and limited visibility also contributes to this Gothic atmosphere.
• Image suggestion: A screenshot highlighting a high-ceilinged, shadowy corridor in a DOOM game, contrasted with an image of a Gothic cathedral interior.

The Monstrous and the Medieval: Demon Design and Dark Ages Iconography

The demonic hordes in DOOM aren't just randomly designed creatures; their imagery draws heavily on the monstrous bestiaries and grotesque imagery of the Dark Ages. This deliberate incorporation of medieval iconography adds a layer of historical depth and unsettling familiarity to the game's already terrifying monsters.

Demonic Imagery and Medieval Beasts

Many of the demons' designs echo medieval depictions of mythical creatures. The grotesque features, unnatural proportions, and sheer brutality of these creatures are reminiscent of the fantastical beasts found in medieval bestiaries and illuminated manuscripts.

• Examples: The Revenant's design, with its skeletal frame and rocket-propelled weaponry, bears some resemblance to depictions of winged demons or hellhounds in medieval art. The Mancubus's massive size and grotesque appearance also aligns with the tradition of representing demons as monstrous and terrifying figures.
• Image suggestion: A side-by-side comparison of a DOOM demon (like the Revenant or Mancubus) alongside a medieval illustration of a similar demonic or mythical creature.

Armor and Weaponry Inspired by the Dark Ages

The player's arsenal and the demons' weaponry also reflect the aesthetics of the Dark Ages. The emphasis on heavy metal, chains, and brutal weaponry contributes to the game's visceral and violent aesthetic.

• Examples: The heavy metal armor and brutal weaponry of the DOOM Slayer, particularly the iconic Super Shotgun, evoke a sense of medieval warfare. Similarly, many demons wield weapons that resemble medieval weaponry, albeit often with a demonic twist.
• Image suggestion: A close-up showcasing the DOOM Slayer's armor and weaponry, contrasted with images of Dark Ages weaponry and armor.

The Narrative Resonance: Themes of Survival and Despair

The narrative of DOOM isn't just about shooting demons; it's about survival against overwhelming odds in a world consumed by hell. This theme of relentless struggle against insurmountable forces resonates strongly with the harsh realities and pervasive sense of instability often associated with the Dark Ages.

A World in Ruin

The desolate and hellish landscapes of the DOOM games reflect the instability and hardship often associated with the Dark Ages. The environments are visually striking in their decay and destruction; this visually communicates the feeling of a world ravaged by conflict and suffering.

• Examples: The ruined cities and corrupted landscapes in both DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal evoke a sense of a world broken and irrevocably changed by conflict. The constant sense of decay and destruction underscores the theme of a world struggling to survive.

Brutal Combat and the Medieval Mindset

The fast-paced, visceral combat in the DOOM games mirrors the brutality and conflict characteristic of the historical Dark Ages. The relentless action and power fantasy element reflect the need to overcome adversity through sheer force and determination.

• Examples: The game's emphasis on close-quarters combat, gory finishers, and overwhelming odds reflects the brutality of medieval warfare and the constant struggle for survival. The DOOM Slayer's relentless aggression can be interpreted as a reflection of the medieval mindset: a brutal but necessary response to a brutal world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the influence of the Dark Ages on the modern DOOM experience is undeniable. From the architectural echoes in level design to the demonic imagery and the overarching themes of survival and despair, the games successfully blend historical aesthetics with a fantastical setting, creating a unique and powerfully evocative gaming experience. The impact of DOOM's Dark Ages inspiration is a testament to the power of historical themes in shaping contemporary video game design. Delve deeper into the infernal landscapes of DOOM and discover more examples of this fascinating connection between gaming and history. Explore the impact of DOOM's Dark Ages inspiration for yourself!