DOOM Eternal: The Hunt Begins Gameplay Walkthrough
Introduction
Hey guys! Welcome to the DOOM Eternal walkthrough! In this first part, we're diving headfirst into The Hunt Begins, and let me tell you, it's going to be a wild ride. DOOM Eternal, the critically acclaimed sequel to DOOM (2016), cranks up the intensity, the action, and the gore to a whole new level. If you thought the previous game was intense, you're in for a treat (or maybe a nightmare, depending on how you look at it!). We will explore the initial levels, combat mechanics, and secrets that DOOM Eternal throws our way right from the start.
DOOM Eternal isn’t just about blasting demons; it's about mastering a complex dance of destruction, utilizing every tool and ability at your disposal to stay alive and rip and tear through the hordes of Hell. This walkthrough aims to guide you through the chaos, offering tips, tricks, and strategies to conquer even the toughest challenges. We'll break down each encounter, explore the environments, uncover hidden items, and, most importantly, make sure you're having a blast while doing it. So, whether you're a seasoned Slayer or a newcomer to the franchise, buckle up, because The Hunt Begins now!
In this initial segment, expect a high-octane introduction to the game's core mechanics. You'll quickly learn that standing still is a death sentence. Aggression is key in DOOM Eternal. The game encourages you to constantly move, to aggressively engage enemies, and to utilize your entire arsenal. We'll be covering the importance of the Glory Kill system, which not only provides health but also adds to the visceral thrill of the combat. We’ll also delve into the tactical use of the Flame Belch, Chainsaw, and your trusty arsenal of weapons. Each weapon has its strengths and weaknesses, and knowing when and how to use them is crucial for survival. Get ready to learn how to juggle your resources, prioritize targets, and dominate the battlefield. The demons are waiting, and they're hungry, but with this guide, you'll be the one doing the feasting… on their souls!
The Story So Far
Before we jump into the gameplay, let’s set the stage a little. The narrative in DOOM Eternal picks up sometime after the events of DOOM (2016). Earth has been overrun by demonic forces, and billions have perished. You, the DOOM Slayer, are humanity's last hope, a one-person army against the legions of Hell. But you're not just any soldier; you're a force of nature, an unstoppable engine of destruction fueled by rage and an unyielding desire to protect humanity (and maybe just a little bit of demon-slaying fun). The story is unveiled through a mix of in-game cutscenes, environmental storytelling, and codex entries that delve into the lore of the DOOM universe. These elements provide context to the carnage, revealing the origins of the demons, the history of the Slayer, and the desperate plight of mankind.
Understanding the narrative threads woven into DOOM Eternal enhances the overall experience. It's not just about shooting demons; it's about understanding why you're shooting them, about the stakes involved, and the weight of your mission. The lore enriches the world, giving depth to the environments and motivations behind the action. The game also introduces new characters and factions, some of whom will aid you in your quest, while others may have their own agendas. Keep an eye out for these details as you progress, as they can offer valuable insights into the unfolding events. While DOOM Eternal is primarily an action-packed shooter, the narrative provides a compelling backdrop to the relentless combat. It adds weight to your actions and makes the victory over each demon horde that much more satisfying. So, take a moment to appreciate the story, even as you're tearing through the legions of Hell. It's a tale of courage, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of the DOOM Slayer.
Throughout the game, you will uncover more about the Slayer's past, his connection to the demonic forces, and the ancient war that has raged for eons. These revelations add layers of intrigue to the experience, transforming it from a simple demon-slaying spree into an epic saga. The more you explore the world and delve into the lore, the richer the game becomes. DOOM Eternal rewards players who pay attention to the details, offering a deeper understanding of the universe and the Slayer's place within it. The story elements also provide motivation, driving you forward even when the challenges seem insurmountable. You're not just fighting for survival; you're fighting for the fate of humanity, for the future of Earth, and for the legacy of the DOOM Slayer. And that, my friends, is a story worth fighting for. So, let’s lock and load, and get ready to rewrite the ending.
Gameplay Mechanics: Rip and Tear!
Okay, let's talk about what really makes DOOM Eternal tick: the gameplay. This isn't your typical run-and-gun shooter, guys. It's a brutal, fast-paced ballet of bullets, blood, and guts, where resource management is just as crucial as aiming skills. DOOM Eternal introduces the “push-forward combat” system, which encourages aggressive play by rewarding you with resources for killing demons in specific ways. Low on health? Glory Kill a staggered enemy for a health boost. Need armor? Flame Belch 'em with your shoulder-mounted flamethrower, and they'll drop armor shards. Running low on ammo? Chainsaw a demon to bits, and watch the ammo rain down. This system forces you to constantly engage with the enemy, making every encounter a dynamic and thrilling experience. It's a constant dance of destruction, where you're balancing offense and defense, utilizing your entire arsenal to stay alive and keep the demons at bay.
Understanding these core mechanics is paramount to surviving in DOOM Eternal. You can't just camp behind cover and pick off enemies from a distance. The game actively punishes that playstyle by depriving you of resources and overwhelming you with enemies. Instead, you need to be in the thick of it, dodging projectiles, weaving through hordes, and using your mobility to your advantage. The Slayer is incredibly agile, able to dash, double-jump, and climb walls, allowing you to traverse the environments with speed and grace. Mastering these movement techniques is crucial for dodging enemy attacks and positioning yourself for optimal damage. The more comfortable you become with the movement system, the more effectively you can navigate the chaotic battlefields of DOOM Eternal. This also allows for strategic advantages, such as flanking enemies or reaching higher ground for a better vantage point. So, practice those dashes and jumps, and get ready to dance with the demons!
The weapon selection in DOOM Eternal is another key element of the gameplay. Each weapon has its strengths and weaknesses, and knowing which weapon to use in each situation is crucial for maximizing your damage output. The Combat Shotgun is a reliable all-rounder, perfect for close-to-medium range engagements. The Super Shotgun is a devastating powerhouse, ideal for dealing massive damage at point-blank range. The Heavy Cannon offers precision and range, while the Plasma Rifle is great for shredding through armored enemies. And, of course, we can't forget the BFG 9000, the ultimate room-clearer that obliterates everything in its path. Experimenting with different weapons and finding your favorites is part of the fun, but don't be afraid to switch things up depending on the situation. Some enemies are more vulnerable to certain types of damage, so adapting your weapon choice is essential for survival. Also, remember to utilize weapon mods, which add extra functionality and versatility to your arsenal. These mods can be upgraded to further enhance their effectiveness, giving you even more options for demon destruction. So, load up, lock and load, and get ready to unleash a symphony of destruction!
The Hunt Begins: Initial Levels Walkthrough
Alright, let's dive into the first few levels of The Hunt Begins in DOOM Eternal. The opening stages are designed to ease you into the game's mechanics, but don't let that fool you – they're still packed with plenty of action and challenges. The initial level serves as a tutorial of sorts, introducing you to the basic movement, combat, and resource management systems. You'll learn how to jump, dash, climb, and, of course, how to rip and tear through demons with your trusty arsenal. Pay close attention to the on-screen prompts and instructions, as they'll guide you through the fundamentals of DOOM Eternal's gameplay. Don't be afraid to experiment with different weapons and abilities, and get a feel for how they work in combat. The early stages are a great opportunity to hone your skills and develop your own playstyle. Remember, aggression is key, so don't be afraid to charge into the fray and unleash hell on the demonic hordes.
As you progress through the initial levels, you'll encounter a variety of demons, each with its own unique attack patterns and weaknesses. The basic Imps are relatively weak but can be dangerous in large numbers. The Soldiers are more heavily armored and can dish out significant damage. The zombies are slow and clumsy but can overwhelm you if you're not careful. And then there are the more formidable foes, like the demonic Gargoyles, and the revenants with their deadly missile attacks. Learning how to identify each enemy type and exploit their weaknesses is crucial for survival. Some demons are vulnerable to specific weapons, while others require a different tactical approach. For example, the Cacodemon, a floating ball of flesh with a gaping maw, is highly susceptible to a grenade tossed into its mouth. Figuring out these weaknesses and adapting your strategy accordingly is part of the fun of DOOM Eternal. It's a constant process of learning and adapting, and the more you experiment, the more effective you'll become at demon-slaying.
In addition to the combat encounters, the initial levels also introduce you to the exploration and puzzle-solving elements of DOOM Eternal. The environments are intricately designed, with hidden areas, secret passages, and collectibles scattered throughout. Take your time to explore each level thoroughly, as you never know what you might find. Some secrets are relatively easy to discover, while others require a bit more ingenuity and experimentation. Keep an eye out for breakable walls, hidden switches, and other clues that might lead you to a valuable reward. These rewards can include weapon mods, armor upgrades, and even extra lives, which can be a lifesaver in the later stages of the game. The puzzle elements in DOOM Eternal are not overly complex, but they do require you to think creatively and utilize your environment to your advantage. Sometimes, you'll need to use your abilities to reach a high ledge, while other times, you'll need to manipulate the environment to open a hidden passage. These puzzles add a nice change of pace to the intense combat and reward you for your curiosity and resourcefulness. So, don't just focus on the demons; take some time to explore the world around you, and you might be surprised at what you discover.
Secrets and Collectibles
Speaking of secrets, DOOM Eternal is packed with them! Finding these hidden goodies is a rewarding experience, offering not just gameplay advantages but also adding to the lore and world-building. Throughout The Hunt Begins, you'll stumble upon various collectibles, including Codex Pages, which provide insights into the game's story and characters; Modbots, which unlock weapon modifications; Praetor Suit Points, which allow you to upgrade your armor; and Sentinel Batteries, which are used to unlock new areas in the Fortress of DOOM, your base of operations. Each collectible offers a unique benefit, whether it's enhancing your abilities, expanding your arsenal, or simply enriching your understanding of the DOOM universe. The thrill of discovery is a key part of the DOOM Eternal experience, and the game cleverly hides these items in both obvious and obscure locations. You'll need to use your observation skills, your movement abilities, and your puzzle-solving prowess to uncover them all.
Some secrets are hidden in plain sight, requiring only a keen eye to spot. A crack in a wall, a slightly off-color texture, or a suspicious-looking vent might be hiding a valuable collectible. Other secrets are more challenging to find, requiring you to solve environmental puzzles or navigate tricky platforming sections. You might need to use your dash ability to reach a distant ledge, or you might need to activate a hidden switch to open a secret passage. The game encourages you to think outside the box and to use your environment to your advantage. For example, you might be able to use a destructible object to create a new path, or you might be able to use a strategically placed explosive barrel to clear a path to a hidden area. The more creative you are, the more secrets you'll uncover.
Finding all the secrets in DOOM Eternal is not just about collecting items; it's also about exploring the world and appreciating the intricate level design. The developers have put a lot of care and attention into creating these environments, and the secrets are often cleverly integrated into the architecture and layout of the levels. By searching for these hidden goodies, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry that went into creating DOOM Eternal. And, of course, you'll also reap the rewards of your efforts, becoming a more powerful and versatile Slayer. So, take your time, explore every nook and cranny, and get ready to uncover the hidden treasures of DOOM Eternal. The demons may be relentless, but the secrets are even more enticing!
Conclusion: The Slayer's Journey
So, guys, that's a wrap for Part 1 of our DOOM Eternal walkthrough! We've covered a lot of ground, from the initial story setup to the core gameplay mechanics and the secrets hidden within The Hunt Begins. DOOM Eternal is a game that demands your attention, your aggression, and your willingness to embrace the chaos. It's a challenging experience, but it's also incredibly rewarding. The feeling of tearing through hordes of demons, mastering your weapons and abilities, and uncovering the secrets of the world is unlike anything else. This is just the beginning of the Slayer's journey, and there's so much more to come.
As we continue this walkthrough, we'll delve deeper into the game's story, explore new environments, face even more formidable enemies, and uncover even more secrets. We'll break down the strategies for each encounter, offer tips for mastering the various weapons and abilities, and help you become the ultimate demon-slaying machine. But more importantly, we'll have fun doing it! DOOM Eternal is a game that's meant to be enjoyed, and we're here to help you get the most out of your experience. Whether you're a seasoned Slayer or a newcomer to the franchise, we hope this walkthrough has been helpful and informative. Remember, aggression is key, resource management is crucial, and exploration is rewarding. Keep moving, keep shooting, and keep ripping and tearing! The demons of Hell won't stand a chance.
Thank you for joining us on this first part of the DOOM Eternal adventure. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we'll continue the hunt and delve even deeper into the depths of Hell. Until then, keep slaying, keep exploring, and keep having fun. The DOOM Slayer's journey is long and arduous, but with determination and a whole lot of firepower, you can conquer any challenge that comes your way. And remember, in the face of evil, there's only one solution: Rip and tear, until it is done!
