Those interested in checking out “Doom’s” multiplayer DLC can now do so free of charge in celebration of the game’s newest update.
The Facts
In a post made to the Bethesda website July 19, Game Director of Doom Marty Stratton laid out some of the benefits that would come with the game’s latest 6.66 update. First and foremost was the lifting of the pay wall on multiplayer content.
“[W]e’ve retired the DOOM season pass and are making all of the multiplayer DLC content available to all players. That’s three multiplayer DLC packs, which include nine of our best maps, three additional guns, three additional playable demons, new equipment, armor sets and more,” Stratton said.
In addition, the weapon unlock system is now based on level and challenge completion as opposed to the random unlock system that has been used up to this point. While this will reset all player levels to zero, any weapons, equipment or demons unlocked can be retained through the new system.
The update also introduces a rune system, replacing the hack module system to handle player abilities.
“Much like the Runes system from the DOOM campaign, multiplayer Runes are now persistent player abilities earned and included in a player load out,” Stratton said. “Unlike the previous Hack Modules, Runes do not need to be activated and do not expire. Runes are persistent capabilities (or perks) that become a consistent and predictable component of your loadout and play style.”
Other gameplay tweaks include a more detailed HUD scroll of information related to kills and stats, refined menu interfaces and free weekend trail periods beginning July 20 on Xbox One and PC and July 27 on PS4.
This all comes with a special discount to the game’s digital version which will run alongside the free weekends.
“[W]e don’t want anything standing in your way of joining the millions of people that have experienced the rush and pure fun of DOOM, so not only are we giving you a chance to try it during a free weekend – if you like it, we’re offering it for $14.99 (US) / £11.99 (UK) / $17.99 (AUS),” Stratton said.
Author’s Take
With all of the benefits included with the launch of this new patch, there’s never been a better time to check out “Doom.” Anyone who hasn’t played the game should seriously consider doing so during whichever weekend lines up with their current console.