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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
DualShock Controller Support
DualShock Controller Support
DualShock Controller Support
DualShock 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): $23.09
Current Players: 1.6k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(86%)
stunning visuals
shield mechanic
fast-paced action
medieval themes
shield and parry
gameplay changes
mech and dragon sections
music issues
performance problems
repetitive gameplay
Overall, while the game offers stunning visuals and an engaging combat system with the introduction of the shield, many players found it lacking in a few key areas compared to its predecessors. The absence of Mick Gordon's music was particularly noted, leading to a less impactful soundtrack. Gameplay changes, including the focus on parrying and slower pace, received mixed feedback, with opinions split on these new elements. While some players appreciated the new medieval and dark fantasy setting, others felt that the game's attempt to innovate led to performance issues and storytelling that fell short of expectations. The game's new direction was intriguing to some but did not resonate with all long-term fans of the series.

Positive Points

  • Many players praised the game's graphics, noting the stunning visuals and impressive level of detail.
  • The introduction of the shield as a core gameplay mechanic was met with positive feedback for its innovative design and integration into combat.
  • The game's pacing and fast-paced action were appreciated, making players feel powerful and engaged throughout.
  • The game offers a new take on the Doom series with its medieval and dark fantasy themes, which some players enjoyed and found to be refreshing.

    • Negative Points

  • Players expressed disappointment with the music, comparing it unfavorably to previous Doom soundtracks composed by Mick Gordon.
  • Several reviewers noted performance issues, particularly with high system requirements and frame rate inconsistencies.
  • Some players found the gameplay to be repetitive and less engaging than previous Doom entries, particularly in terms of level design and enemy variety.
  • The story received mixed feedback, with some players finding it lacking in depth and less impactful than expected.

    • Mixed Points

  • While the shield and parry mechanics added a new layer to the gameplay, some players felt it slowed down the pace compared to previous games.
  • The game divided opinions with its new direction and changes in combat style, with some appreciating it and others preferring the style of Doom Eternal.
  • The inclusion of mech and dragon sections received mixed reviews, with some players finding them fun diversions and others seeing them as unnecessary and not fitting the Doom experience.

    • Common Themes

  • The contrast between retaining core Doom elements and introducing new mechanics.
  • The challenge of meeting expectations set by Doom Eternal and Doom 2016.
  • Players value the visceral action and fast-paced nature of the Doom series.
  • A strong emphasis on graphical fidelity and aesthetic design in the game's presentation.
    • Updated 6/26/2026, 12:01:25 AM UTC
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