The bond between Doom and metal music is undeniable, a relationship that's evident from the first notes of any Doom soundtrack or the iconic demonic imagery that's synonymous with both. The series has consistently showcased a visual feast of flames, skulls, and devilish creatures, reminiscent of an Iron Maiden stage setup. As Doom has evolved over its 30-year history, so too has its musical partnership with metal, exploring various sub-genres from thrash to the modern metalcore of Doom: The Dark Ages.
The original Doom in 1993 drew heavily from the thrash metal scene of the late 80s and early 90s. John Romero, one of Doom's co-creators, cited bands like Pantera and Alice in Chains as key influences. The track "Untitled" for the E3M1: Hell Keep level, for instance, echoes Pantera's "Mouth of War" with its striking riff. The broader Doom score emulated the energy of Metallica and Anthrax, propelling players through Mars' corridors with the same urgency as a thrash metal solo. Bobby Prince's timeless compositions perfectly complemented the game's relentless gunplay.
Doom: The Dark Ages - Gameplay Screenshots
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For over a decade, Doom's music and gameplay maintained a similar intensity, but with Doom 3 in 2004, the series took a bold step into survival horror territory. The game's slower pace necessitated a new sound, leading id Software to seek inspiration from bands like Tool. Doom 3's main theme could easily be mistaken for a track from Tool's Lateralus, with its intricate time signatures and eerie ambiance fitting perfectly with the game's horror elements. Although initially controversial, Doom 3's flashlight mechanic was eventually addressed, but its innovative approach to sound design left a lasting impact.
Following a period of development challenges, Doom returned in 2016 with a revitalized approach. Marty Stratton and Hugo Martin's vision for the game brought back the original's momentum, with Mick Gordon's soundtrack adding a new layer of intensity. Gordon's use of sub-bass and white noise created a visceral experience, likened to a playable djent album. Doom 2016's score has become legendary, setting a high bar for the series.
Doom Eternal in 2020 continued this trajectory, though with some controversy surrounding Gordon's involvement. The soundtrack leaned into the metalcore genre, reflecting the game's more varied gameplay elements, including platforming and puzzles. Despite some changes, Gordon's influence was still palpable, echoing his work with bands like Bring Me the Horizon and Architects.
Now, Doom: The Dark Ages is poised to further expand the series' musical and gameplay horizons. The game's slower pace and new combat mechanics, like the Captain America-inspired shield and giant mechs, suggest a soundtrack that needs to be both heavy and adaptable. Early glimpses hint at influences from modern heavy bands like Knocked Loose, combined with nods to the original Doom's thrash roots. As Doom continues to innovate, its soundtrack remains a crucial element, enhancing the game's immersive experience.
The evolution of Doom's music mirrors the changes within the metal genre, embracing experimentation and blending elements from various sub-genres. As Doom: The Dark Ages approaches, fans can anticipate a thrilling fusion of gameplay and sound, continuing the series' legacy of delivering intense, memorable experiences.
