Exploring Maps in DOOM: The Dark Ages

Primed as a super weapon wielded by gods and kings, players take on the role of the DOOM Slayer as they conquer the forces of evil in DOOM: The Dark Ages. On top of blood-pumping FPS combat and a blockbuster story, id Software also connects the experience using a third element: Exploration. 

Featuring the largest levels ever constructed for a DOOM game, DOOM: The Dark Ages’ maps offer lots for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Read on to learn more about navigating the beautifully rendered, yet still brutal, hellscapes of DOOM: The Dark Ages. 

SEARCH AND DESTROY 

Secret areas can be found throughout DOOM: The Dark Ages in all sizes, shapes and varieties. From areas locked behind puzzles to rewards tucked away in a corner, there’s no telling what you’ll uncover, so always be on the lookout. 

Among the more critical items you’ll find exploring are Life Sigils. These extra lives allow you to immediately bounce back after death without having to reload a checkpoint, making them a literal lifesaver in a pinch. You can only hold onto a limited number of Life Sigils at one time, however, so be sure to think twice before using one! 

UNCOVER RESOURCES AND MORE 

Also waiting to be discovered are Gold Chests and statues displaying rare Rubies or even powerful Wraithstones to collect. You’ll want to amass as much in-game treasure as you can, since Gold, Rubies and Wraithstones are spent at Sentinel Shrines to upgrade your guns, Shield Saw and melee attacks. 

You won’t just find resources for upgrades on your journey, however. Under an ancient tomb or beneath a windswept cliff, you may also find unique rewards such as Codex Entries, offering more lore and a deeper look into the DOOM universe. Players can also find Collectibles, featuring toy versions of characters or even weapon skin cosmetics! 

OBSERVE YOUR SURROUNDINGS 

Some areas aren’t so quick to reveal their secrets, but there’s never been an obstacle that stopped the DOOM Slayer long. Observe your environment and look for opportunities to use your equipment. For example, the Shield Saw’s Charge and Throw abilities can be used out of combat to push certain objects or operate a gate – keeping an eye out for certain environmental giveaways like green nodes or red metal can also provide clues on how to proceed. 

Traversing levels is aided by the AutoMap; readily accessible from the menu, players can assess their location, pinpoint objectives and even search for yet-to-be-found caches and secret areas in one place. Speaking of objectives, DOOM: The Dark Ages features special icons marking points of no return. These checkpoints mark where, once crossed, the Slayer cannot return to without restarting the level. Never fear - thanks to the AutoMap, you can always check for areas left unexplored before continuing your campaign of carnage. 

DOOM: The Dark Ages is available May 15 for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox PC, Steam, and PlayStation 5 – play it day one with Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass. Play it on both Series X|S and Xbox PC at no additional cost with Xbox Play Anywhere. For more information, visit DOOM.com.