DOOM: The Dark Ages

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.

Current Players: 10981
Developers: id Software
Publishers: Bethesda Softworks
Release Date: May 14, 2025
Price (USD): $69.99
satisfying combat
shield mechanics
smooth performance
engaging exploration
detailed graphics
slower pace
weapon variety
exploration tasks
enforced ray tracing
lackluster soundtrack
no glory kills
repetitive segments
story focus
Engaging gameplay mechanics and detailed graphics are praised by players, yet enforced ray tracing and a lackluster soundtrack with the absence of Mick Gordon leave some feeling underwhelmed. Players have mixed sentiments about the new slower pace and whether it aligns or deters from their expectations and interests.

Positive Points

  • Engaging and satisfying combat mechanics, with a unique blend of medieval weaponry and firearms.
  • Players appreciate the shield's introduction, allowing for parrying and adding a new layer to combat.
  • Amazing visuals and graphics, contributing to an immersive and detailed environment.
  • Smooth performance for a majority of users, highlighting the technical prowess of id Software.
  • The intricate level design encourages exploration with detailed environments and hidden treasures.
  • Negative Points

  • The removal of glory kills disappointed fans as it was a signature feature of the series.
  • Ray tracing is enforced, which affects performance on older systems, making it inaccessible for some players.
  • The soundtrack is considered lackluster compared to previous installments by many, citing the absence of Mick Gordon as a notable loss.
  • Repetitive dragon and mech sections feel like unnecessary filler rather than engaging experiences.
  • Some find the storytelling to be excessively front-and-center, detracting from the streamlined action-focused gameplay they associate with Doom.
  • Mixed Points

  • The slower pace and lack of dashing compared to Doom Eternal is divisive; some appreciate the change, while others feel it detracts from the game's excitement.
  • Weapon variety is abundant, yet some players find certain weapons to be overpowered, leading to a lack of necessity for others.
  • Exploration in the game involves extensive backtracking, which some players find adventurous while others find tedious.
  • Common Themes

  • The shield parry system is a novel and prominent feature, affecting the way combat unfolds.
  • Doom: The Dark Ages is intended to diversify the Doom gameplay experience by implementing slower-placed mechanics.
  • Players engage with the game’s exploration and secrets, although opinions vary on the execution of these features.
  • There is a pronounced division over the soundtrack, with some players fondly remembering Mick Gordon's work in previous titles.
  • Updated 5/23/2025, 12:00:51 AM UTC