Doom's enduring legacy is inextricably linked to its metal soundtrack. The series' iconic imagery of fire, skulls, and demonic entities mirrors the aesthetic of bands like Iron Maiden. This symbiotic relationship between Doom and metal has evolved alongside the game's gameplay mechanics, spanning diverse metal subgenres over three decades. From the thrash metal influences of the original Doom to the modern metalcore of Doom Eternal, the music has consistently reflected the game's evolution.

The 1993 original drew heavily from late 80s and early 90s metal giants such as Pantera and Alice in Chains. Tracks like "Untitled" (E3M1: Hell Keep) bear a striking resemblance to Pantera's "Mouth of War." The overall soundtrack, with its thrash metal energy reminiscent of Metallica and Anthrax, perfectly complemented the game's fast-paced action. Bobby Prince's score remains a timeless classic, perfectly syncing with the game's iconic gunplay.

Doom: The Dark Ages - Gameplay Screenshots

6 Images

Doom 3 (2004), a departure into survival horror, necessitated a different musical approach. While Trent Reznor's involvement was initially considered, Chris Vrenna and Clint Walsh ultimately composed the soundtrack, drawing inspiration from Tool's atmospheric and complex style. The main theme evokes the progressive metal of Tool's Lateralus, perfectly capturing the game's slower, more deliberate pace.

Though a commercial success, Doom 3's survival horror elements are now seen as an outlier in the series. This reflects the broader shift in the FPS genre and the metal landscape of the early 2000s. The choice to avoid the then-popular nu-metal sound in favor of a Tool-inspired approach proved a wise decision.

The 2016 Doom reboot marked a triumphant return to form, embracing the fast-paced action and heavy metal energy of the original. Mick Gordon's groundbreaking score, a djent-infused masterpiece, is now considered iconic. The intense, visceral soundscape perfectly complements the frenetic gameplay.

Doom Eternal (2020), while featuring Gordon's work, experienced production complexities, resulting in a soundtrack that, while still heavily influenced by his style, leans more towards metalcore, reflecting the trends of the late 2010s. The influence of bands like Bring Me the Horizon and Architects is evident.

While Doom Eternal is excellent, many prefer the raw power of Doom 2016's soundtrack. This preference mirrors the author's personal preference for the earlier, less polished work of bands like Architects.

Doom: The Dark Ages presents a fascinating new chapter. Initial glimpses suggest a soundtrack that blends past and present metal influences, reflecting the game's unique blend of classic Doom elements and innovative mechanics. The slower, more deliberate combat, incorporating mechs and mythological creatures, necessitates a soundtrack that can be both brutally heavy and dynamically versatile. The influence of bands like Knocked Loose is already apparent.

The Dark Ages' gameplay, with its emphasis on close-quarters combat and massive scale, mirrors the evolution of modern metal, incorporating diverse elements and pushing creative boundaries. The anticipation for its soundtrack is high, promising a potential new benchmark in video game music. The combination of intense gunplay and a powerful soundtrack promises another thrilling chapter in the Doom saga.