Clearing the Inferno Level in Doom Eternal: Best Weapons and Tactics

Doom Eternal's Inferno level presents a hellish challenge that will test even seasoned Slayers. To emerge victorious, you'll need to master your arsenal and employ advanced tactics. This comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to conquer the demonic hordes and emerge from the inferno unscathed.
Weapons of Mass Destruction
The Super Shotgun: Your Trusty Companion
The Super Shotgun stands as one of the most potent weapons in your arsenal[5]. With its devastating close-range damage output and the addition of the meat hook, this iconic weapon becomes even more versatile. The meat hook allows you to quickly close the distance to enemies, providing both mobility and offensive capabilities.
To maximize the Super Shotgun's effectiveness:
- Use the meat hook to quickly traverse the arena and maintain momentum
- Aim for weak points on larger demons to stagger them
- Combine with other weapons in quick-switch combos for burst damage
The flaming meat hook upgrade is a priority, as it not only deals additional damage but also provides armor shards, enhancing your survivability[3].
The Ballista: Precision and Power
The Ballista is an often underestimated weapon that truly shines in the hands of a skilled player[5]. Its high damage output and precision make it ideal for taking down flying demons and dealing with threats at medium to long range.
Effective Ballista strategies include:
- Using the Arbalest mod for sticky explosives on tough enemies
- Employing the Destroyer Blade mod to clear groups of smaller demons
- Combining with the Super Shotgun in quick-switch combos for massive burst damage
The Chaingun: Sustained Firepower
When facing waves of demons or particularly tough foes, the Chaingun proves invaluable[5]. Its high rate of fire and large ammo capacity allow for sustained damage output, while its mods provide additional tactical options.
Key Chaingun tactics:
- Use the Mobile Turret mod for maximum damage against bosses
- Deploy the Energy Shield mod for temporary invulnerability while still dealing damage
- Alternate between the Chaingun and other weapons to manage ammo consumption
The Rocket Launcher: Explosive Solutions
The Rocket Launcher offers both high single-target damage and area-of-effect capabilities[5]. Its versatility makes it a staple in any Slayer's loadout.
Maximize the Rocket Launcher's potential by:
- Using the Lock-On Burst mod to quickly eliminate priority targets
- Employing the Remote Detonation mod for precise area damage and hitting enemies behind cover
- Combining with other weapons in quick-switch combos for burst damage
Advanced Combat Tactics
Constant Movement is Key
The cardinal rule of Doom Eternal combat is to never stop moving[10]. Staying still for even a moment can lead to a quick demise. Utilize the full range of movement options available to you:
- Double jump and dash to maintain air superiority
- Use monkey bars and jump pads to quickly traverse the arena
- Employ the meat hook to swing between enemies and platforms
Remember, a moving target is much harder to hit, and constant motion allows you to survey the battlefield and prioritize threats.
Resource Management Through Glory Kills
Glory Kills are not just visually satisfying; they're essential for survival. Performing Glory Kills on staggered demons yields health pickups, allowing you to sustain yourself in prolonged fights[9]. To maximize the effectiveness of Glory Kills:
- Use weaker weapons to stagger enemies without killing them outright
- Save Glory Kills for when you're low on health
- Prioritize Glory Kills on demons that pose the greatest immediate threat
The Chainsaw: Your Ammo Lifeline
In Doom Eternal, ammo is a precious resource that can quickly run dry in intense firefights. The Chainsaw is your primary means of replenishing ammo mid-combat[9]. To effectively use the Chainsaw:
- Save fuel for larger demons when possible, as they yield more ammo
- Keep an eye on your ammo reserves and use the Chainsaw proactively
- Remember that the Chainsaw automatically regenerates one fuel pip over time
Flame Belch for Armor Generation
The Flame Belch ability is crucial for maintaining your armor in prolonged engagements[10]. When used effectively, it can keep you protected even in the face of overwhelming odds. To maximize armor generation:
- Use Flame Belch on groups of enemies before eliminating them
- Combine with the Ice Bomb to freeze enemies in place while they burn
- Always Flame Belch before performing Glory Kills or Chainsaw kills for guaranteed armor drops
Mastering Quick-Switch Combos
One of the most advanced techniques in Doom Eternal is the use of quick-switch weapon combos. By rapidly switching between weapons, you can output massive damage in a short time. Some effective combos include:
- Super Shotgun + Ballista
- Rocket Launcher + Precision Bolt (Heavy Cannon)
- Super Shotgun + Rocket Launcher
Practice these combos in the Fortress of Doom's Ripatorium to perfect your timing[9].
Dealing with Specific Demon Types
Fodder Demons
While individually weak, fodder demons can overwhelm you in large numbers. Use area-of-effect weapons like the Combat Shotgun's Sticky Bombs or the Heavy Cannon's Micro Missiles to clear them efficiently[5]. Remember that fodder demons are also valuable resources for Glory Kills and Chainsaw fuel when you're low on health or ammo.
Heavy Demons
Heavy demons like the Mancubus, Arachnotron, and Revenant require more focused fire to take down. Prioritize destroying their weak points to reduce their threat level:
- Use precision weapons like the Heavy Cannon's Precision Bolt to destroy the Arachnotron's turret
- Target the Revenant's shoulder-mounted launchers to limit its ranged attacks
- Destroy the Mancubus' arm cannons to significantly reduce its damage output
Super Heavy Demons
Super Heavy demons like the Baron of Hell and Doom Hunter are formidable opponents that require sustained damage and tactical approach. For these threats:
- Use the Rocket Launcher's Lock-On Burst to deal massive damage quickly
- Employ the Chaingun's Mobile Turret mod for sustained fire
- Utilize the Ice Bomb to freeze them in place while you focus fire
The Marauder: A Special Case
The Marauder is a unique enemy that requires a specific approach. To defeat this challenging foe:
- Wait for the Marauder's eyes to flash green, indicating an opening for attack
- Use quick-switch combos with the Super Shotgun and Ballista to maximize damage during these windows
- Keep medium distance to bait out the Marauder's attacks
- Use the Chaingun's Energy Shield to block the Marauder's axe throws
Environmental Awareness and Utilization
Exploiting Explosive Barrels and Environmental Hazards
The Inferno level is littered with explosive barrels and other environmental hazards. Use these to your advantage:
- Lure groups of demons near explosive barrels before detonating them
- Use precision shots to trigger chain reactions of explosions
- Be aware of hazardous surfaces that can damage both you and enemies
Utilizing Vertical Space
Doom Eternal's levels are designed with vertical movement in mind. Take full advantage of this:
- Use jump pads and monkey bars to gain a height advantage
- Survey the battlefield from elevated positions to prioritize threats
- Drop down on enemies from above for surprise attacks
Secret Areas and Power-Ups
The Inferno level, like all Doom Eternal levels, contains secret areas with valuable power-ups and upgrades[4]. Take the time to explore:
- Look for cracked walls that can be destroyed to reveal hidden paths
- Use the Automap to identify unexplored areas
- Collect Sentinel Batteries to unlock upgrades in the Fortress of Doom
Mastering the Flow of Combat
The Combat Loop
Doom Eternal's combat is designed around a specific loop of actions:
1. Deal damage to stagger enemies
2. Perform Glory Kills for health
3. Use the Chainsaw for ammo
4. Employ Flame Belch for armor
Mastering this loop is crucial for survival in the Inferno level. Practice transitioning smoothly between these actions to maintain your resources and momentum.
Prioritizing Threats
In the chaos of battle, it's essential to prioritize your targets effectively:
1. Eliminate immediate threats (e.g., charging enemies, projectile-spewing demons)
2. Take out support enemies that buff or resurrect others
3. Focus on Heavy and Super Heavy demons
4. Clean up remaining fodder demons
By following this priority list, you can manage the battlefield more effectively and prevent being overwhelmed.
Advanced Techniques
Weapon Mod Mastery
Each weapon in Doom Eternal has two mods, each with its own mastery challenge. Completing these challenges unlocks powerful upgrades:
- The Super Shotgun's meat hook mastery allows you to set enemies on fire for armor shards
- The Rocket Launcher's Lock-On Burst mastery increases the number of rockets fired
- The Plasma Rifle's Heat Blast mastery allows for faster charge times
Prioritize completing mastery challenges for your most-used weapons to significantly enhance your combat effectiveness.
Rune Synergies
Runes provide passive bonuses that can dramatically alter your playstyle. Some powerful combinations include:
- Air Control + Chrono Strike for enhanced aerial maneuverability and precision
- Seek and Destroy + Blood Fueled for rapid Glory Kill chains
- Saving Throw + Equipment Fiend for improved survivability and ability uptime
Experiment with different rune combinations to find the setup that best suits your playstyle.
Conclusion
Conquering the Inferno level in Doom Eternal requires a combination of skill, strategy, and resource management. By mastering your arsenal, employing advanced tactics, and maintaining constant awareness of your surroundings, you can overcome even the most challenging encounters. Remember to stay mobile, manage your resources effectively, and never stop improving your combat techniques. With practice and perseverance, you'll be ripping and tearing through the hordes of Hell like a true Doom Slayer.
As you face the trials of the Inferno level, keep in mind that each encounter is an opportunity to refine your skills and push your limits. Embrace the challenge, learn from your mistakes, and never hesitate to adapt your strategy when faced with new threats. The path through Hell is paved with the bones of demons – make sure yours aren't among them.
Citations:
[1] https://www.trueachievements.com/game/Doom-XBLA/walkthrough/5
[2] https://www.ign.com/wikis/doom-eternal/Weapon_Locations
[3] https://www.doomworld.com/forum/topic/116886-doom-eternal-ultranightmare-guide-for-beginners/
[4] https://doomwiki.org/wiki/Levels
[5] https://gamerant.com/doom-eternal-weapons-best/
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/Doometernal/comments/15ocrtn/anyone_here_willing_to_give_me_some_tips_on_what/
[7] https://www.ign.com/wikis/doom-eternal/Walkthrough
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eqCR5avPFA
[9] https://venturebeat.com/business/doom-eternal-tips-and-tricks-to-survive-the-whole-game/
[10] https://www.gamesradar.com/doom-eternal-tips/