DOOM: The Dark Ages PC Tech Preview - Digital Foundry Impressed
DOOM: The Dark Ages is generating significant anticipation. We are now seeing a glimpse of the technological prowess of the PC release. Digital Foundry, the technical experts, have analyzed the game and are reporting positive impressions.
idTech 8 Engine Powerhouse
John Linneman from Digital Foundry experienced demon shredding in DOOM: The Dark Ages. He pushed the PC version to its limits. A key highlight is the game's foundation on idTech 8. This is the same engine for the upcoming Indiana Jones and the Great Circle game. This engine choice suggests a visually remarkable experience.
Visual Feast: Ray Tracing and Detail Overload
Prepare for impressive visuals. DOOM: The Dark Ages appears highly detailed in Digital Foundry's preview:
- Global Illumination and Ray Tracing: Expect exceptional lighting and reflections, enhancing the game world's realism. Path tracing is being investigated as a potential feature.
- Rich Environmental Detail: Even outside combat, the game world is rich in graphical elements. Rain, blowing grasses, and dynamic environments contribute to a sense of immersion.
- Destruction on a Grand Scale: Expect significant destruction. Driving mechs allows for large-scale destruction, including bridges, impacting gameplay.
Tech Magic Under the Hood
Digital Foundry speculates id Software may be utilizing technology similar to Unreal Engine 5's Nanite. This is suggested by minimized pop-in. The reduced pop-in contributes to a smoother and more immersive visual experience.
Lightning-Fast Loading
Load screens are remarkably fast. They are almost so quick as to feel slightly jarring. The game loads rapidly, making load times feel nearly nonexistent. This was benchmarked on high-end PC hardware with an SSD. Performance may vary on different setups. This is a strong indication of excellent optimization.
Release Date Approaching
Digital Foundry's analysis should amplify existing excitement. DOOM: The Dark Ages is positioned to be a technical showcase in addition to a visceral shooter. Prepare to engage hell on May 13th. The game will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: Based on Digital Foundry analysis
