DOOM: The Dark Ages is the latest installment in the iconic DOOM series, developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks. Released on May 15, 2025, it serves as a prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, offering a darker, medieval-inspired twist on the franchise’s signature first-person shooter gameplay.(Reddit)
⚔️ Gameplay & Features
- Combat Evolution: Departing from the fast-paced acrobatics of its predecessors, The Dark Ages introduces a more grounded combat system. Players control the DOOM Slayer, equipped with the Shield Saw—a versatile weapon that allows for blocking, parrying, and attacking with a single input. New melee weapons like the electrified gauntlet and spiked mace add depth to close-quarters combat. (Wikipedia)
- Epic Scale Battles: The game features massive set-piece battles, including the ability to pilot a 30-story Atlan mech and ride a cybernetic dragon, engaging in aerial and ground combat against colossal demons. (Wikipedia)
- Exploration & Environment: Players can explore expansive, non-linear levels set in a medieval war-torn world. The environment encourages discovery, with secrets hidden behind destructible barriers and opportunities for strategic combat.
- Customization & Accessibility: The game offers adjustable difficulty settings and gameplay sliders, allowing players to tailor their experience. This includes modifying parry timings, projectile speeds, and overall game speed. (slayersclub.bethesda.net)
🎶 Soundtrack
The game’s soundtrack is composed by Finishing Move, known for their work on Halo 2 Anniversary. The score blends heavy metal with medieval influences, complementing the game’s dark fantasy setting. (Windows Central)
🛒 Editions & Availability
- Standard Edition: Includes the base game.(Steam Store)
- Premium Edition: Offers two-day early access, campaign DLC, a digital artbook and soundtrack, and the Divinity Skin Pack, which includes matching skins for the DOOM Slayer, dragon, and Atlan. (Steam Store)
- Collector’s Edition: Features all Premium Edition content plus a physical Slayer statue and Steelbook case.(Windows Central)
The game is available on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and Windows PC. It is also included in Xbox Game Pass on day one. (The Sun)
📈 Reception
Upon release, DOOM: The Dark Ages received positive reviews, with an 86% overall rating on Steam based on over 17,000 user reviews. Critics praised the game’s brutal combat and expansive world, though some noted its departure from the franchise’s traditional fast-paced action.(Steam Store, The Sun)
🖼️ Visuals
The game boasts enhanced visual fidelity, utilizing the id Tech 8 engine to deliver stunning graphics that take full advantage of modern hardware capabilities. (slayersclub.bethesda.net)
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