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While the DOOM community is rife with its own slang and terminology, a specific widespread technique referred to as “DYG” for improving scores remains elusive. However, the pursuit of higher scores in the fast-paced, demon-slaying action of the DOOM series is a central element for many players. This guide will delve into the proven strategies and techniques that will help you climb the leaderboards and achieve S-tier scores in DOOM’s various game modes.
At the heart of high-score chasing in modern DOOM titles, particularly DOOM Eternal and its score-based modes, lies a core philosophy: kill everything, do it stylishly, and never stop moving. The game’s scoring systems are designed to reward aggressive, efficient, and varied combat.
The Pillars of a High Score: Multipliers, Glory Kills, and More
To consistently rack up impressive scores, players must master several key mechanics:
- The Multiplier is King: The single most crucial element for a high score is your score multiplier. This is increased by collecting items and killing demons in quick succession. To keep the multiplier high, you must maintain a constant flow of carnage. Any lull in combat will cause it to decrease ¹.
- Glory Kills are Essential: Performing a Glory Kill on a staggered demon is not just a way to regain health; it’s also a significant source of points. Chaining Glory Kills is a fundamental technique for any high-score run ².
- Weapon Mastery and Combos: Effectively switching between weapons to dispatch different types of demons is vital. Utilizing weapon modifications and creating powerful combinations, such as the classic Super Shotgun and Ballista swap, will not only help you survive but also significantly increase your damage output and, consequently, your score ³.
- Power-Up and Equipment Management: Strategically using power-ups like Quad Damage and Berserk can turn the tide of a difficult encounter and send your score skyrocketing. Similarly, effective use of your equipment launcher, including Frag Grenades and the Ice Bomb, can control the battlefield and set up massive point-scoring opportunities ³.
Advanced Strategies for the Aspiring Slayer
Once you’ve grasped the fundamentals, it’s time to incorporate more advanced tactics:
- Stagger and Weaken: Instead of immediately killing weaker demons, consider staggering them to set up Glory Kills for when your multiplier is high. You can also weaken larger demons and finish them off when a power-up is active.
- Environmental Kills: Using the environment to your advantage, such as shooting explosive barrels or pushing demons off ledges, can be a quick and efficient way to score points without expending much ammunition ¹.
- Mastering Movement: The “DOOM dance” is a constant, fluid movement that makes you a harder target and allows you to position yourself optimally for kills and item pickups. Mastering mechanics like the dash and the Meathook on the Super Shotgun is non-negotiable for high-level play ⁴.
Dominating Horde Mode and Arcade Mode
These dedicated modes are all about the score. Here are some specific tips:
- In Horde Mode, focus on completing the bonus objectives in each round, as they provide a significant score boost. The order in which you kill demons and when you pick up multipliers is critical to maximizing your points ¹.
- In Arcade Mode, the emphasis is on speed and efficiency. Knowing the level layouts and enemy spawns will allow you to plan your route and maintain your multiplier from start to finish ⁵.
Optimizing Your Setup for Peak Performance
While not a direct scoring mechanic, ensuring your game runs smoothly can have a significant impact on your performance. Fine-tuning your graphical settings to achieve a stable, high frame rate will make the fast-paced action more manageable, allowing for quicker reactions and more precise aim. This can be the difference between a good run and a great one ⁶.
By focusing on these core tenets of DOOM’s combat and scoring systems, you can transform your gameplay from mere survival to a symphony of destruction that will see your name rise through the ranks of the leaderboards. Now go forth and rip and tear, until it is done.
Sources
- Bethesda Softworks. (2021, October 26). DOOM Eternal – Horde Mode Deep Dive. Slayers Club.
- Grygorcewicz, M. (2022). “Get Good, Git Gud”: The Discursive Construction of Skill and Expertise in Video Game Playing on Reddit. Games and Culture, 17(5), 706-724. (Discusses the importance of core mechanics like Glory Kills in the community’s perception of skill).
- IGN. (2020, March 18). 13 Essential Doom Eternal Combat Tips.
- PC Gamer. (2021, March 17). Doom Eternal combat tips: Become the ultimate demon-slaying machine.
- Bethesda Softworks. (2017, December 12). DOOM – Arcade Mode Now Live.
- Digital Trends. (2022, May 10). Doom Eternal PC settings guide: How to get the best performance.