Understanding the Term “Woke”
The term “woke” has increasingly become associated with individuals online who view something as excessively politically correct. However, it now appears to be used more broadly to label things that some people dislike.
DOOM: The Dark Ages Gameplay Trailer Reaction
The release of a new gameplay trailer for DOOM: The Dark Ages sparked significant excitement within the gaming community, showcasing features like a trio of melee weapons, a cybernetic dragon, and a massive mech suit. Nonetheless, there were some criticisms, notably regarding the absence of brutal glory kills and the introduction of difficulty sliders.
Introducing Difficulty Sliders
While difficulty sliders are a common feature in many games, they are a new addition to the DOOM series. These sliders allow players to tailor game difficulty according to their preferences. Adjustments can be made regarding damage from projectiles, their speed, and more. Players can choose to set the game to easy mode, a moderate difficulty level, or a challenging experience that tests their skills.
Director’s Response to Criticism
Some gamers have disapproved of the sliders, branding them as “woke.” In response, director Hugo Martin released a video on X discussing the feature. He stated, “DOOM: The Woke Ages… I’ve seen the videos, and I don’t agree with that. The policy behind the sliders is to ensure it’s enjoyable for players of all skill levels. You should be able to adjust the game to be as easy or hard as you like.”
Game Mechanics and Strategy
Martin explained that even top players in their office often utilize the sliders in unexpected ways. For instance, while many might assume that raising all difficulty levels is optimal, that’s not the case. The sliders offer extensive customization, allowing players to manipulate projectile speed and damage to create unique challenges, thus enhancing gameplay without necessarily making it easier.
Creating a Unique Customizable Experience
The difficulty sliders encompass various categories such as Player Damage, Enemy Damage, Projectile Speed, and Game Speed. This versatility means players can create tailored experiences that range from low risk to high reward. The developers aimed to emulate the classic DOOM experience, where maneuvering between projectiles is essential.
Anticipation for the Release
It remains unclear how the introduction of customizable features could be perceived as “woke,” a term typically associated with political contexts. Perhaps those criticizing the features simply misunderstood their purpose. DOOM: The Dark Ages is scheduled for release on May 13. Are you looking forward to playing it? Share your thoughts in the comments!
