As fans eagerly await the release of *DOOM: The Dark Ages*, many are revisiting the classic *DOOM* and *DOOM 2* games. The developers at id Software have not only resumed work on the new title but have also recently updated the compilation of *DOOM + DOOM 2*, enhancing the technical aspects of these iconic shooters.
The update introduces robust support for multiplayer modifications, ensuring compatibility with mods created using Vanilla DOOM, DeHackEd, MBF21, or BOOM. A significant improvement is the ability for all players to pick up items during cooperative play, which adds a new layer of strategy and teamwork. Additionally, an observer mode has been added for players who are dead and waiting to be revived, enhancing the co-op experience. The multiplayer network code has been optimized for smoother gameplay, and the mod loader now supports more than the first 100+ mods a player subscribes to, expanding the possibilities for customization and gameplay variation.
Turning our attention to *DOOM: The Dark Ages*, the developers are focused on making the game as accessible as possible. Executive producer Marty Stratton emphasized that the team's goal is to provide players with extensive customization options. Players will have the ability to adjust the aggression of demons through the settings, tailoring the game to their preferred level of challenge. Furthermore, *DOOM: The Dark Ages* will allow modifications to enemies' damage and difficulty, projectile speed, the amount of damage players take, and other gameplay elements such as tempo, aggression level, and parry time.
Stratton also reassured fans that *DOOM: The Dark Ages* will be accessible to newcomers, stating that prior knowledge of *DOOM: Eternal* is not necessary to understand the narrative of *DOOM: The Dark Ages*. This approach aims to welcome both long-time fans and new players into the thrilling world of DOOM.
