Doom The Dark Ages review

DOOM: The Dark Ages – A Brutal Return to Medieval Mayhem

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The gates of Hell are poised to open once more as id Software brings forth DOOM: The Dark Ages, a prequel that reimagines the franchise’s core with a medieval twist. Set to release on May 15, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Windows PC, this installment shifts from the frenetic pace of its predecessors to a more grounded, melee-focused combat system. With new mechanics, weapons, and a rich gothic atmosphere, here’s everything you need to know to prepare for the onslaught.

Pre-Launch Essentials

Preloading and Early Access

Players can begin preloading DOOM: The Dark Ages starting May 11 at midnight UTC. Those who purchase the Premium Edition gain Early Access, allowing them to dive into the action two days ahead of the official release, beginning May 13 at midnight UTC. Ensure you have at least 100GB of free storage space to accommodate the game’s substantial size.

Premium Edition Benefits

Opting for the Premium Edition not only grants Early Access but also includes a Digital Artbook & Soundtrack, the Divinity Skin Pack, and access to future Campaign DLCs. These additions offer a deeper immersion into the game’s lore and aesthetic.Diario AS

System Requirements

To experience DOOM: The Dark Ages at its best, ensure your PC meets the following specifications:

Minimum (1080p/60 FPS/Low Settings):

Recommended (1440p/60 FPS/High Settings):

  • CPU: AMD Zen 3 or Intel 12th Gen (e.g., Ryzen 7 5700X, i7-12700K)
  • GPU: Ray tracing-capable GPU with 10GB VRAM (e.g., NVIDIA RTX 3080, AMD RX 6800)
  • RAM: 32GB

Ultra 4K (2160p/60 FPS/Ultra Settings):

Note: A hardware ray tracing-compatible GPU is required to play the game on PC.

Gameplay Evolution

 Doom: The Dark Ages. Photograph: Bethesda

A Shift in Combat Dynamics

Departing from the high-speed, acrobatic combat of DOOM Eternal, The Dark Ages introduces a more deliberate, melee-centric approach. Players are encouraged to stand their ground, utilizing new mechanics like parrying and shield bashes to counter enemy attacks. This change emphasizes strategic positioning and timing over sheer speed. Wikipedia+1Polygon+1The Guardian+1Polygon+1

New Arsenal and Mechanics

The game introduces several new weapons and tools:

  • Shield Saw: A versatile tool that serves both defensive and offensive purposes, allowing players to block incoming attacks and retaliate with powerful strikes.
  • Skull Crusher: A firearm that launches bone fragments, dealing significant damage and adding a visceral feel to combat.Wikipedia
  • Melee Weapons: Traditional medieval weapons like maces and flails make their debut, reinforcing the game’s thematic shift.

These additions, combined with the game’s emphasis on melee combat, offer a fresh take on the classic DOOM formula. Diario AS+3Reddit+3Windows Central+3

Narrative and Setting

A Prequel Tale

Set before the events of the 2016 DOOM reboot, The Dark Ages delves into the origins of the Doom Slayer. Players will explore a techno-medieval world, blending gothic architecture with advanced technology, as they uncover the Slayer’s transformation into the demon-slaying force known throughout the series. Wikipedia

Expansive Environments

The game boasts 22 expansive levels, each designed to encourage exploration and strategic combat. While some critics note that the vastness can occasionally lead to pacing issues, the overall design offers a rich and immersive experience.

Innovative Features

Vehicle Integration

For the first time in the series, players can pilot massive vehicles:Wikipedia

  • Atlan Mech: A towering machine that allows players to engage in large-scale battles against formidable foes.
  • Cybernetic Dragon: Offering aerial combat and traversal, this addition adds a new dimension to gameplay.

While these segments introduce variety, some players may find them less engaging compared to the core combat mechanics.

Visual and Audio Excellence

Enhanced Graphics

Utilizing the idTech 8 engine, The Dark Ages delivers stunning visuals, from dynamic lighting to detailed environments. The game’s aesthetic draws inspiration from heavy metal album art, creating a unique and immersive atmosphere. Blizzard NewsDen of Geek

Soundtrack

Composed by Finishing Move, known for their work on Halo 2 Anniversary, the game’s soundtrack complements the intense action and dark setting, enhancing the overall experience. Windows Central

Critical Reception

Early reviews praise DOOM: The Dark Ages for its bold departure from series norms and its successful integration of new mechanics. While some critiques focus on pacing and the execution of vehicle segments, the game’s combat and atmosphere have been widely lauded. Notably, PlayStation Universe awarded it a 9.5/10, highlighting its reinvention of the DOOM formula. Reddit

Conclusion

DOOM: The Dark Ages represents a daring evolution of the franchise, blending medieval themes with the series’ signature brutality. With its release imminent, players should prepare their systems, sharpen their blades, and brace themselves for a hellish journey into the past.