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DOOM: The Dark Ages
Action
Single-player
Steam Achievements
Full controller support
Steam Trading Cards
Color Alternatives
#category_contrast_controls
Adjustable Difficulty
Playable without Timed Input
DualShock Controller Support
DualShock Controller Support
DualSense Controller Support
DualSense Controller Support
Subtitle Options
Surround Sound
Steam Cloud
HDR available
Family Sharing

DOOM: The Dark Ages is the prequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal that tells an epic cinematic story worthy of the DOOM Slayer’s legend. Players will step into the blood-stained boots of the DOOM Slayer, in this never-before-seen dark and sinister medieval war against Hell.

Developers: id Software
Publishers: Bethesda Softworks
Release Date: May 14, 2025
Price (USD): $69.99
Current Players: 1.1k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(86%)
graphics
storytelling
shield mechanics
DLC praise
optimization
parrying mechanics
music
story presence
gameplay pace
Revelations DLC
glory kills
performance issues
dragon sections
story execution
music impact
Graphics and storytelling in Doom: The Dark Ages are broadly praised, complemented by a soundtrack that fits yet sometimes lacks the impact of its predecessors. The newly introduced parrying and melee mechanics are appreciated for adding new depth, though not everyone is a fan of the shift away from the series' traditionally frantic pace. The removal of glory kills is a notable detractor for fans longing for the series' previous intensity. Despite some technical optimization and smooth performance, issues arise with the mandatory ray tracing impacting some setups. Interestingly, the Revelations DLC has rejuvenated many players' interest, corroborating its widely acknowledged excellence. Overall, while offering new dimensions to the Doom experience, the game leaves some longing for the classic fast-paced mayhem of former entries.

Positive Points

  • Graphics, storytelling, and gameplay received a lot of praise, with many players appreciating the polished visuals and engaging storyline.
  • Parrying and melee mechanics were commonly cited as great additions, providing a new style of gameplay that some players found refreshing.
  • The DLC, Revelations, is repeatedly praised for adding depth and revitalizing the game, with many considering it superior to the base game.
  • Soundtrack, although missing Mick Gordon’s contribution, was still well-received by many players and fit well with the game’s atmosphere.
  • Technically, the game is noted for its optimization and smooth performance on capable rigs.

    • Negative Points

  • Some players were disappointed by the removal or reduction of glory kills, which they felt affected the traditional Doom experience.
  • Performance issues were reported, especially on systems without the ability to handle ray tracing efficiently.
  • The dragon and mech sequences received mixed receptions, with some players feeling they were filler content and not engaging.
  • Several players found the story and new gameplay mechanics disruptively different from traditional Doom, suggesting it lacked the fast-paced intensity they expected.

    • Mixed Points

  • The shield mechanism and parry-based combat were both praised and criticized; while some players enjoyed the change, others missed the fast-paced fluidity of previous games.
  • The music was seen as fitting by some, but unimpressive by others especially when compared to Mick Gordon’s previous contributions.
  • The story was noted to be more present and complex compared to earlier titles, drawing varied opinions on its necessity and execution.

    • Common Themes

  • Many reviews focus on the comparison between The Dark Ages and previous Doom titles like Eternal and Doom 2016, with ongoing debate about the slower pace and strategic combat.
  • Revelations DLC has consistently impacted opinions positively, with many players suggesting the DLC significantly enhances the game's playability and interest.
  • The different approach to gameplay (more strategic, slower, shield-focused) is a frequent topic, seen as both a noteworthy evolution by some and a step backward by others in the Doom formula.
    • Updated 7/31/2026, 12:02:02 AM UTC
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