DOOM Eternal: The Ancient Gods - Part One is a first-person shooter action game that serves as a standalone campaign expansion. Players take on the role of the Doom Slayer in a direct continuation of the fight against demonic forces after the events of the base title. The story centers on restoring balance to the cosmos following the defeat of the Khan Maykr, as Hell's legions threaten multiple dimensions including the heavenly realm of Urdak.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around fast-paced combat against waves of demons in linear mission environments. Movement emphasizes mobility through dashes, double jumps, and environmental interactions that allow quick repositioning during fights. Weapon handling includes a mix of standard firearms and specialized tools that require resource management from defeated enemies to maintain effectiveness in prolonged encounters.
Combat demands constant awareness of enemy positions and types, with upgrades available through exploration of each area. The expansion introduces mechanics that force adjustments in approach, such as dealing with enemies that enhance nearby allies or those wielding ranged projectile attacks. Platforming sections connect combat arenas, requiring precise timing to navigate hazardous terrain while progressing toward objectives.
Game Modes
The experience consists entirely of a single-player campaign structured around one extended mission. There are no additional modes such as multiplayer or horde-style challenges included in this release. Progression follows a linear path with opportunities for optional exploration to collect upgrades and secrets before facing key encounters.
New Locations and Enemies
Three distinct environments expand the battlefield. The UAC Atlantica Facility features industrial platforms exposed to rain on Earth, creating slippery surfaces and vertical layouts. The Blood Swamps in Hell present flooded, corpse-strewn areas that alter movement and visibility. Urdak returns in a corrupted state with crumbling architecture that adds verticality and hazards during fights.
Two new enemy types require specific tactics. The Spirit appears as an ethereal entity that possesses and strengthens other demons, increasing their speed and durability until removed. The Blood Maykr operates as a corrupted variant of angelic foes, using a throwable staff for powerful strikes that demand dodging and counterattacks. These additions layer onto existing demon behaviors without replacing core combat systems.
Is It Worth Playing?
This release suits players who enjoy challenging single-player first-person shooters with emphasis on precise movement and resource-driven combat. The standalone format allows direct access without prior ownership of the base game. No post-launch updates or seasonal content have been added since its 2020 release, so the content remains fixed as a self-contained campaign. Those seeking extended play through additional modes or ongoing support may find the scope limited compared to full titles, while fans of the series' combat intensity will encounter refined tests of skill in the new settings and threats.
