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DOOM: The Dark Ages
Action
Single-player
Steam Achievements
Full controller support
Steam Trading Cards
Color Alternatives
Adjustable Difficulty
Playable without Timed Input
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: 400

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(86%)
shield mechanic
stunning visuals
difficulty customization
game atmosphere
new gameplay style
parry mechanic
dragon and mech sections
performance issues
repetitive combat
weak story
music downgrade
Overall, the sentiment towards 'DOOM: The Dark Ages' is mixed. While many players enjoy the new shield mechanics and impressive graphics, others find the game repetitive and unpolished, with performance issues detracting from the experience. The storyline and music receive mixed responses, with some missing the iconic sound of previous games. Although the change in gameplay style from fast-paced to a more strategic and grounded approach appeals to some, others miss the frenetic action of prior titles.

Positive Points

  • The shield mechanic adds a fresh twist to the classic DOOM gameplay, introducing a stand-your-ground style with satisfying parries and melee attacks.
  • Graphically, the game is impressive with stunning visuals and well-designed levels, especially in the cosmic horror-inspired sections.
  • The game's level of customization in difficulty settings is appreciated, allowing players to adjust the experience to their preference.
  • The soundtrack by Finishing Move Inc., though not Mick Gordon, is generally well-received for its solidity and fitting the game's atmosphere.

    • Negative Points

  • Frequent crashes and performance issues are a concern, particularly on specific setups, including forced ray tracing, which demands high-end hardware.
  • The game is criticized for repetitive combat and boss fights, where the mechanics can feel monotonous over time.
  • The story is considered weak by many, lacking depth and compelling characters, with some cutscenes being unnecessary and lengthy.
  • The music, while decent, is seen as a downgrade from the previous entries, lacking the iconic impact and memorability.

    • Mixed Points

  • The introduction of dragon and mech sections provides pace variety but is seen as either innovative or unnecessary filler by players.
  • The change from fast-paced movement in Doom Eternal to a slower, more tank-like gameplay is divisive; some appreciate the change, while others miss the speed and agility.

    • Common Themes

  • The shield and parry mechanic is a central focus of the game's new combat system, which divides players in terms of enjoyment and satisfaction.
  • There is a strong sentiment that 'DOOM: The Dark Ages' has diverted significantly from the style of its predecessors, with both positive and negative reactions to this shift.
  • Despite being a prequel, the narrative efforts to expand DOOM lore are seen as insufficient by fans who find it unengaging.
  • Players generally agree that the game is not worth the full price due to its limited replayability and the feeling of being a step back from 'DOOM Eternal'.
    • Updated 5/14/2026, 12:00:57 AM UTC
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