Doom: The Dark Ages game director Hugo Martin and producer Marty Stratton delved into the details of the upcoming FPS, shedding light on one of the most talked-about features: the Skullcrusher gun. This gruesome weapon, which feeds skulls into a woodchipper and blasts the shards everywhere, has garnered significant attention since its debut in the game’s trailers.
According to Martin, the Skullcrusher evolved from the Bonecrusher concept, undergoing significant development to become the spread minigun fans have seen in action. While it draws comparisons to the classic chaingun from previous Doom games, the Skullcrusher boasts distinct mechanical differences. Notably, it excels at close-range combat, compensating for its limited range with a rapid rate of fire and movement speed boost that intensifies as the player fires.
As players progress through the game, the Skullcrusher will level up, unlocking modifications like an accuracy-improving choke mod. This progression system, reminiscent of Doom 2016 and Eternal, allows players to enhance their arsenal and tailor their gameplay experience.
Martin described the base Skullcrusher as feeling like a “weed whacker” in action, requiring players to get up close and personal with their demonic foes. The resulting carnage is a testament to id’s commitment to delivering visceral, over-the-top action. Drawing inspiration from classic action movies like Robocop, the team has refined its demonic dismemberment tech to create a truly immersive experience.
At the heart of this experience lies the game’s advanced gore system, which Martin proudly claims is the best in the industry. By combining destructible demons, intricate animations, physics, sound design, and blood squibs, id has crafted a truly unsettling atmosphere. As Martin put it, the Skullcrusher’s ability to hold enemies in place, dismembering them with reckless abandon, is a hallmark of the game’s unapologetic excess.
With Doom: The Dark Ages, id Software is poised to deliver another installment in the beloved franchise, one that promises to push the boundaries of fast-paced action and visceral combat. As fans eagerly await the game’s release, they can rest assured that the team at id is dedicated to delivering an unforgettable experience.
