The spawn of Hell come in many shapes and sizes – some presenting a threat that demands even the DOOM Slayer’s full attention. As you tear through DOOM Eternal’s campaign, you’ll encounter a few especially imposing demons who won’t fall so easily to your onslaught.

Read on for our tips for tackling three of DOOM Eternal’s boss encounters – don't worry, we won’t spoil every major battle coming your way. With the right game plan, however, even these early adversaries will fall like the rest to your mighty DOOM Blade.

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THE DOOM HUNTER

A worthy opponent to the Slayer and the first major boss encounter of DOOM Eternal, say hello to the DOOM Hunter! Despite its size, the DOOM Hunter has an array of surprisingly high-speed attacks and pulls out all the stops in combat. The thing is strapped with a rocket launcher, double-bladed chainsaw, homing missiles, regenerating energy shield and oh, did we mention its hovering sled?

Priority the first when facing the DOOM Hunter is disabling its regenerating energy shield. The Hunter's shield can regenerate as long as its sled is intact, so focus breaking it down first. (Your trusty Plasma Rifle should be up for the job.)

On defense, keep your distance from its melee attacks and mind the homing missiles that track the Slayer from at almost any range. Once the shield is overloaded and the Hunter exposed, go all out on its sled to permanently dismantle the shield and level the playing field. With both the shield down and the sled dismantled, it’s time for a 1v1 fight to the finish.

Slayer Strategy: Stay vigilant for Glory Kill and Chainsaw opportunities during the fight to stay on top of health and ammo – demon fodder there for a reason!

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THE MARAUDER

With speed and ferocity to match your own, the Marauder is one of the most downright aggressive enemies you’ll face in DOOM Eternal. He is not insurmountable, but choosing the right moment to strike will be crucial for victory.

The Marauder’s first line of offense is his axe. At range, he’ll swing it to fire ranged energy blasts at the Slayer – time your dodges and get into the good habit of keeping the Marauder at a safe distance.

In closer quarters, the Marauder will attempt to pressure you into a corner with horizontal and vertical swings of this blade. However, his eyes briefly flash green before unleashing this attack – this is your chance to strike! A blast from a Super Shotgun or your Ballista will knock the Marauder off balance, countering his attack and creating an opening for a follow-up of your own!

Timing is key: Attack too soon and the Marauder will deflect it with his shield; wait until it’s too late and, well, you get the picture. The Marauder is packing a double-barreled shotgun of his own, so avoid staying in his personal bubble too long, lest you recieve a faceful of buckshot for your trouble.

Watch out, as the Marauder can summon a wolf familiar to hunt you down and deal serious damage with all those sharp teeth it has. When summoned, quickly shift priorities and try not to become dog chow mid-fight!

Slayer Strategy: Back against the wall? Use your Super Shotgun’s Meathook to launch over the Marauder and get some breathing room and reset.

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THE GLADIATOR

Your movement skills, resource management and offensive capabilities are tested in a fight to the death against the fearsome Gladiator! Time to enter the arena, Slayer.

PHASE ONE

First thing’s first: the Gladiator possesses a massive shield that makes a direct assault less than effective. However, his attacks can leave a critical gap in his defenses. Like the Marauder, the Gladiator’s has a tell before he launches into an attack - shoot him when his eyes flash and you’ll stagger him. Once exposed, there's your chance to strike!

The Gladiator’s flails are deadly at range, so you’ll want to dash liberally to stay out of danger. He’ll attack with overhand swings, underhand swings and even the occasional ground smash – don’t be caught standing still!

When the Gladiator bangs on his shield with his mace, he follows up with a devastating attack you’ll really want to dodge, so look for the signal! Keep up the pressure and it’ll be time for the second round.

PHASE TWO

The second phase starts once you've dealt with the Gladiator's shield, forcing him to bring out...*another* flail! He’ll repeat his ranged attacks with double the stopping power now, but one of the biggest differences in this phase is the Gladiator’s new shockwave attack. He’ll attempt to pin you between two massive walls and fire shockwaves inside the corridor. Mind the gaps between these waves and position yourself accordingly. He’ll finish this attack with a reckless dash towards you – your chance to stagger him before he makes contact and deal a mighty counterblow!

Though without a shield anymore, the Gladiator can spin one of his maces to protect himself, so conserve your ammo and find your openings. Fight smart and fight hard and the Gladiator will know full well where you got the title of “DOOM Slayer.”

Slayer Strategy: Using the Lock-On Burst Rocket Launcher Mod while dashing is a great way to layer on tons of direct damage without compromising speed. See what other Mods suit your combat style!

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Of course, there are other great battles that lie ahead in DOOM Eternal’s campaign. With this knowledge in hand, however, you'll be able conquer even the biggest bads Hell can muster!

NEED MORE?

- Brush up on the basics with our Demon Slaying 101 guide

- The war continues in DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods