How to Start Defend the City | Doom: The Dark Ages
Image Credits: id Software, DOOM: Dark Ages
In the Defend the City mission of Doom: The Dark Ages, your goal is to reach the battlefield where the real demon-slaying kicks off. But the game doesn’t exactly highlight the path with neon lights.
If you’re stuck in the early city section and wondering where to go, here’s a quick step-by-step guide to get you out of the fortress and to the battlefield.
Read More: All DOOM: The Age of Darkness Achievements
Step 1: Start in the Main Courtyard
You’ll begin in a central hub area with several guards posted around and characters talking about the Slayer’s arrival. Take a second to listen to them; they’re fully aware they’re in the presence of a legend, and some of the lines are pretty entertaining.
When you're ready to move, look to your right for a bridge leading out of the courtyard. That’s your way forward.
Step 2: Open the Gate with Your Shield
Cross the bridge and hang a left. You’ll reach a metal gate, and to open it, all you need to do is throw your Shield Saw directly at it. That’ll trigger the mechanism and get the door out of your way. It’s a quick interaction, but easy to miss if you’re just running past.
Step 3: Follow the Path to the Left and Down
After the gate opens, keep moving through the now-unlocked area. You’ll pass a few industrial-looking sections and walkways. Go left again and follow the descent until you reach a supply drop. This is where you’ll pick up the Flail, one of the game’s major melee weapons.
Enjoy the moment. You’ve now got a new toy that makes crowd control way more fun.
Step 4: Reach the Battlefield
With the Flail in hand, keep moving just a bit farther forward. You’ll exit into the actual battlefield area, where the real fight begins. It’s a wide-open space with enemies pouring in, and this marks the end of the warmup section for this mission.
Note: If you want a visual guide we recommend this video by PazarGamingGuides.
Final Blurb
Getting to the battlefield in Defend the City just takes a bit of navigation and a well-aimed shield throw. If you’re listening to NPC chatter and checking side paths, you’ll naturally find your way there, just don’t forget to grab the Flail on the way. You’re going to need it.
FAQ
Q: What chapter is Defend the City in?
It’s part of Chapter 15, City of Ry’uul.
Q: Is the Flail missable here?
Nope, it’s placed right in your path as a guaranteed pickup.
Q: Can I come back to this area later?
Yes, but you’ll want to grab the weapon now so you can start using it right away.
Q: Why won’t the gate open?
Make sure you’re aiming and throwing your shield directly at it; it needs to hit the lock mechanism to activate.
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