The Revelations expansion for Doom: The Dark Ages was meant to be a celebration for developer id Software. It adds a powerful new weapon and more demonic levels to blast through. Even after a year-long delay, players quickly return to the familiar loop of modern Doom games – each game is different, but they all share a foundation of fast-paced shooter action that is iconic for Doom and sets it apart from everything else.
A Shadow Over the Release
Instead of celebration, however, the release was overshadowed by reports of massive layoffs within Xbox and a strategic reset. According to reports, up to 50% of id Software's employees were let go. Some sources claim only one person remains on the proprietary id Tech engine, but Microsoft denies this, stating that dozens of people across multiple locations are working on the engine. id Software stated in a press release that it still has the necessary team for game and technology development, but the current state is merely a shadow of the studio from the beginning of the week.
What Revelations Brings
The Dark Ages expanded the Doom formula with a new shield that acts as a throwing saw, but also added unnecessary elements. Revelations, on the other hand, focuses on the core of the series – eliminating waves of enemies – and significantly reduces the rest. The new spear allows for slashing, hooking, or throwing, changing the playstyle to a dance instead of brute force. Familiar enemies like the Arachnotron, Revenant, or Mancubus return, battles take place in arenas, and tension is constant – players balance on the edge of ammo, armor, and health until a deadly strike replenishes resources. All of this is accompanied by a pulsating metal soundtrack.
id Software and the Future
Revelations is one of the best examples of modern Doom. Despite pioneering the FPS genre, the studio remains distinct with its brutal and relentless action, which it has developed over decades. The future of id is uncertain – there is speculation about a multiplayer Doom, a John Wick-style game, or a new Perfect Dark. If id creates another Doom, it will be a difficult goal in a weakened state.