Doom's enduring legacy is intrinsically linked to its metal soundtrack. The series' iconic imagery of fire, skulls, and demons mirrors the aesthetic of bands like Iron Maiden. This symbiotic relationship between Doom's gameplay and its music has evolved throughout its 30-year history, encompassing various metal subgenres.
The original 1993 Doom, heavily influenced by late 80s and early 90s metal giants like Pantera and Alice in Chains, featured a thrash metal-inspired score. Tracks like "Untitled" (E3M1: Hell Keep) bear a striking resemblance to Pantera's "Mouth of War." The game's fast-paced action mirrored the urgency of the music, creating an unforgettable experience. Bobby Prince's soundtrack remains a timeless classic, perfectly complementing the game's intense gunplay.
Doom 3 (2004), a departure into survival horror, demanded a different sonic landscape. While Trent Reznor's involvement was initially considered, Chris Vrenna and Clint Walsh ultimately composed the score, drawing inspiration from Tool's atmospheric and complex sound. The game's slower pace and unsettling atmosphere were perfectly matched by the soundtrack's unconventional time signatures and soundscapes.
Following a period of development challenges, Doom (2016) marked a triumphant return to form. Mick Gordon's groundbreaking score, a blend of djent and other heavy metal styles, became instantly iconic. The soundtrack's powerful bass and white noise created a visceral experience, perfectly synchronized with the game's frenetic gunplay.
Doom Eternal (2020), while also featuring Gordon's work, saw a more collaborative approach, resulting in a soundtrack that, while still heavily influenced by metalcore, felt slightly less raw than its predecessor. This shift in sound mirrored the game's introduction of platforming and puzzle elements.
Doom: The Dark Ages presents a fascinating new chapter. Initial previews suggest a soundtrack that blends influences from classic metal with modern heavy sounds, mirroring the game's blend of classic Doom combat with new mechanics. Composers Finishing Move seem to be drawing inspiration from bands like Knocked Loose, combining crushing breakdowns with thrash-inspired elements.
The Dark Ages' slower pace and emphasis on close-quarters combat using a shield calls for a soundtrack that can shift between heavy, seismic moments and lighter, more agile passages. The gameplay shown so far hints at a score that seamlessly blends these elements, creating a dynamic and immersive soundscape.
The game's incorporation of large-scale combat with mechs and mythical creatures reflects a broader trend of experimentation within both the Doom franchise and the metal genre itself. This parallel evolution promises an exciting future for both. The Dark Ages' soundtrack has the potential to be a standout metal album, further solidifying the enduring connection between Doom and heavy music. The May release is highly anticipated.
