Doom: The Dark Ages has been released worldwide on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with availability beginning on May 14/15, 2025, depending on time zones. This game serves as a prequel to Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal, set in a medieval environment with a focus on melee combat, featuring new tools like a chainsaw shield and parrying moves. It is available on Xbox Game Pass (for PC Game Pass and Ultimate tiers only) and has received considerable attention for its technical achievements and gameplay.

Release and Early Access

The game officially launched on May 15, 2025, but players who pre-ordered the Premium Edition were able to access it early starting May 12/13. Preloading was available before the launch, with a download size of about 77.3 GB on Xbox Series X and up to 85 GB on consoles due to large updates.

Gameplay and Reception

Reviews commend the game for its intense, slower-paced combat compared to previous versions, highlighting melee attacks and new weapons like the Shield Saw and Reaver Chainshot. The id Tech 8 engine provides impressive visuals with ray tracing, strong physics, and large battles, earning an 84/100 on Metacritic, though this is lower than Doom Eternal’s score. Critics note its polished gameplay despite minor bugs, with Eurogamer giving it four stars for its straightforward and satisfying action.

Physical Copy Controversy

Some fans have canceled their pre-orders upon realizing that physical PS5 and Xbox discs contain very little data (85 MB for PS5, 342 MB for Xbox), requiring an 85 GB download. This has led to backlash over the “internet required” label and concerns for players with limited internet access, similar to issues faced with Bethesda’s Indiana Jones and the Great Circle.

Performance and Compatibility

The game is optimized for high-end PCs, especially with Nvidia RTX 50-series GPUs, using DLSS 4 for smooth performance. On Steam Deck, it runs at 30-40 fps on low settings after a SteamOS update resolved initial crashes, but higher settings may overwhelm the hardware. However, handheld PCs like the ROG Ally face problems due to outdated GPU drivers, making the game unplayable for some users.

Leaks and Spoilers

Early deliveries have caused significant leaks, with spoilers regarding the plot, combat, and weapons appearing online after some retailers broke the May 15 street date. Fans are encouraged to stay away from social media to avoid spoilers.

Unique Features and Promotions

The game features a Lovecraftian “Cosmic Realm” and mission challenges that reward weapon skins and gold. A crossover with Prince St. Pizza provides an exclusive in-game skin.

DOOM: The Dark Ages gameplay DETAILS

• – Shield Saw reacts differently based on what it encounters, like flesh, armor, or energy shields.
• – You can hold down the block button for a ‘lock-on’ effect.
• – When locked onto an enemy, you can perform a shield bash that helps you move forward and close the distance.
• – Shield bash will be your main method for moving quickly on the battlefield since there is no double jump or dash.
• – You can parry with the shield, and the game will include accessibility options to adjust parry timing and difficulty.
• – You can also throw the shield, which is useful for solving environmental puzzles like breaking chains.
• – Parrying recharges your melee attacks, and melee attacks refill your ammo.
• – There are three melee weapons: Gauntlet (fast), Flail (medium), and Mace (slow).
• – The Mace is slow but deals heavy damage and also replenishes all your resources.
• – The guns have a medieval theme rather than a futuristic one, including some returning weapons.
• – The levels are the largest ever in DOOM and have a more sandbox feel.
• – Each level takes about an hour or so to complete, but completionists may take longer.
• – A typical level is divided into ‘acts,’ like an interior dungeon area followed by a more open area.
• – id Software has wanted to include Atlans (mechs) in the game for eight years, and they have been hinted at in previous games.
• – The story will be more prominent this time, unlike previous games where it was mostly conveyed through text notes.