It’s a good time to be a DOOM player. Bethesda has announced that with Update 6.66 today, they are retiring the season pass and unlocking all multiplayer DLC content for everyone. Players will also find improvements to the in-game HUD and various menus.
These three DLC packs (Unto the Evil, Hell Followed, and Bloodfall) include nine maps, three additional guns, three additional playable demons, new equipment, armor sets and more. As noted by Bethesda, this is on top of modes and features that players have already been enjoying like bot support.
Update 6.66 also revamps the multiplayer progression system. Instead of relying on the current random unlock system, items now unlock through specific leveling requirements and/or in-game challenges. This means that players can focus on getting a certain item without leaving it up to chance.
In order to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to retain previously unlocked items and also unlock anything they don’t have through the new progression system, Bethesda is resetting veteran players’ levels to 0. Because it is only your level, this does not affect your existing items and weapons. Players will still retain all of their existing guns, equipment, demons and customization unlocks that they’ve acquired or purchased. Veteran players will be given a special badge to recognize their achievements.
As for gameplay changes, the Hack Module System is being replaced with an all-new Runes System. Similar to its campaign, multiplayer Runes are persistent player abilities earned and included in a player loadout. Unlike Hack Modules, they do not expire and do not need to be activated.
To lure new players in, DOOM will have a couple of free weekends coming up. Starting on July 20 on Xbox One and PC, and July 27 on PlayStation 4, players can try DOOM for free. The first two campaign levels will be available and players will have unlimited multiplayer access for the duration of the weekend. If you choose to purchase it, Bethesda will be offering it digitally for $14.99.
