DOOM (2016)
DOOM Multiplayer Closed Alpha
DOOM (2016)
Before we dive into any details about DOOM’s Closed Alpha multiplayer tests, let’s get a few housekeeping details out of the way.
First, these are not Betas, nor are they game demos. Instead, these are a series of closed tests with limited functionality – in the case of tomorrow's Closed Alpha, one map, one mode, and a partial selection of weapons and equipment – with the goal of banging on a bunch of back-end functionality in a real-world setting. Sure, the team at id Software will be taking a close look at feedback on the gameplay itself, but that’s just part of the goal here. Much of this initial Closed Alpha is dedicated to assessing how real people connect to servers, systems and the back-end infrastructure needed to operate the game. In other words, all the technical stuff that’s essential to helping id’s vision for DOOM come to life.
As for the Beta... there’s still a big Beta coming in 2016, and your Wolfenstein: The New Order pre-order will still ensure your invitation to this Beta. Speaking of which, if you haven’t yet done so, please register your code here: www.doom.com/alpha. That way you can guarantee your spot in the Beta and have a shot at participating in a Closed Alpha. Go on. We’ll still be here when you’re done.
Back? Great! Now onto this particular Closed Alpha test. To kick things off, please check out this message from Executive Producer Marty Stratton, which also includes an exclusive glimpse of the Alpha gameplay in action.
The first DOOM Closed Alpha begins Friday, October 23 at 12:01 ET and runs through Sunday, October 25 at 11:59 ET. Participants will square off in 6v6 Team Deathmatch on the Heatwave map. Using a limited arsenal of 6 weapons and 2 pieces of equipment, players can choose a pre-set loadout or customize their own loadout before jumping into arena-style combat in this industrial-themed map. Be sure to keep an eye out for several “game changers” that appear in the arena, which include:
- The Demon Rune, which can turn the tide of a battle by transforming a player into a bad-ass Revenant fully loaded with dual rocket launchers and a jetpack.
- The Gauss Cannon, a high-powered weapon that can destroy a foe in a single blast.
- Power-ups like Quad Damage and Invisibility – you can guess what each of these does.
Keep in mind that these highly coveted items have limitations. The Revenant not only has a timer, but an opponent who kills the demon can steal the Rune (pay attention to the enemy demon health at the top of your HUD). The Gauss Cannon has a limited amount of ammo. Power-up capabilities last only a limited amount of time.
For a detailed Closed Alpha FAQ – including the specific weapons available in this particular test – please go to: www.doom.com/alpha/faq
And for those in the Closed Alpha, please submit feedback here: www.doom.com/alpha/feedback
As for what’s next, we’ll be back soon with a lot more info about DOOM. “We’ve had a great time sharing our vision for DOOM with you this year,” Stratton says. “We can’t wait to reveal even more of our single-player campaign, our competitive multiplayer, and SnapMap creation tool and content hub as we get closer to our launch in the spring of 2016.”
But most of all, Stratton and the team at id Software appreciate everyone who helps out during this series of Closed Alpha tests. “All of this is so we can provide the best multiplayer experience at launch,” Stratton says. “So we want to thank our test participants. We couldn’t do this without you!”
Prepare for combat with these DOOM features:
What Defines Doom Multiplayer?
The Guts and Gore of DOOM Glory Kills
