Doom’s open beta starts today on PS4

Since the Doom open multiplayer beta runs on PS4 from today until 17th April, it seemed smart to report the experiences I had during last month’s early access period that opened up for owners of (the excellent) Wolfenstein: The New Order on PS4.

Given the historic influence of Doom’s classic arsenal, I thought it might be best to focus on detailing the firepower awaiting beta players this weekend. Read on for my quick thoughts, and chime in on the comments below if you’ve given the beta a whirl.

Heavy Machinegun

One of the most balanced weapons on the Doom battlefield, and the digital scope helped manage long-distance relationships. It’s not fancy, but it’s effective.

Super Shotgun

The cornerstone of any Doom or Quake game, and I’m pleased to report that it’s effective as hell in the Doom beta. The mod fire tightens the spread of the buckshot, making it a perfect choice for close encounters.

Plasma Rifle

Perhaps my favourite weapon from the private beta — it’s just so satisfying. And the mod fire is one of the best, a grenade-like projectile that splashes damage over time.

Rocket Launcher

One of the most powerful weapons of the beta, though ammo is scarce so every shot counts. Possesses a super-useful mod firing mode that detonates the rocket on command using L2. Kablammo!

Static Rifle

A novel, unique weapon that grows stronger with movement. Fully charged, the Static Rifle inflicts more damage per shot than any other gun.

Vortex Rifle

I’m not great with sniper rifles, but I’ve seen other Doom beta players make great use of this precise weapon. You can increase the damage by charging up its mod fire (hold R2).

Lightning Gun

Plucked straight out of Quake, this weapon emits a devastating shaft of electricity. Trigger the mod fire (R2) to spread the pain to multiple opponents.

 
Ready to dive in? Here’s a quick rundown from our friends at Bethesda with more info on this weekend’s open beta:

If you were unable to join us for our recent Doom closed multiplayer beta, you’re in luck! From 15th to 17th April, you’ll be able to jump straight into the open beta – no code necessary. Simply download the beta and let the viscera fly.

Preload the beta now by following these steps:

• Go to PlayStation Store
• Search for ‘DOOM’
• Select ‘DOOM Open Beta’ from the search result list
• Click the ‘Download’ button

It’s as easy as that. Once the beta kicks off at 5.00pm BST/6.00pm CET, you’ll be able to hop right into two 6v6 modes – Team Deathmatch and Warpath – on the Heatwave and Infernal maps.

With access to new weapons like the Vortex Rifle, and Doom classics like the Super Shotgun, you’ll have a blast putting your opponents in their place. Be the one to reach the Demon Runes in each mode first and walk a mile in the Revenant’s shoes as you tear your foes apart with its brutal rocket launcher.

For more on the open beta, check out the FAQ section of the beta site, where you’ll find more details on the content of the beta and how you can share your experience.