Image Credit: Steam

DOOM: The Dark Ages is poised to redefine the franchise with its upcoming release on May 15, 2025. As a prequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, this installment transports players to a dark, medieval setting, offering a fresh narrative and gameplay experience.

A New Era of Combat

Developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks, DOOM: The Dark Ages shifts from the fast-paced, acrobatic combat of its predecessors to a more grounded, strategic approach. Game Director Hugo Martin describes this transition as moving from feeling like a “fighter jet” to an “iron tank,” emphasizing deliberate, powerful movements over speed .

The game introduces new weapons and mechanics to support this combat style:

• Shield Saw: A versatile tool that combines offense and defense, allowing players to block, parry, and execute devastating attacks.
• Skull Crusher: A weapon that fires bone fragments, adding a brutal edge to ranged combat.
• Melee Arsenal: Including a gauntlet, iron mace, and flail, providing diverse options for close-quarters combat.

Additionally, players can pilot massive vehicles like the Atlan mech and ride a cybernetic dragon, introducing new dynamics to the gameplay .

Expansive and Immersive World

Set in a techno-medieval world, the game offers expansive levels designed with a sandbox approach. Each level is structured into acts, such as interior dungeons and open areas, providing varied environments and challenges. The levels are among the largest in the series, encouraging exploration and strategic planning .

The narrative delves into the origin story of the DOOM Slayer, exploring his transformation into a weapon for gods and kings. The game places a greater emphasis on storytelling, with more cutscenes and character development, providing a deeper insight into the DOOM Slayer’s motivations and the world he inhabits .

Technical Advancements

DOOM: The Dark Ages is built on the latest version of the id Tech engine, delivering enhanced visuals and performance. The game supports ray tracing and requires a graphics card with a minimum of 8 GB VRAM on PC. It also integrates NVIDIA’s DLSS 4 technology, ensuring smooth and detailed graphics .

The soundtrack, composed by Finishing Move Inc., known for their work on Halo 2 Anniversary, features a heavy metal score that complements the game’s intense atmosphere .

Editions and Availability

DOOM: The Dark Ages will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, with a day-one launch on Xbox Game Pass .

Several editions are available:

• Standard Edition: The base game.
• Premium Edition: Includes two-day early access (starting May 13), DLC, digital soundtrack, and artbook.
• Collector’s Edition: Features a Slayer statue, Steelbook, and additional collectibles .

Preorders come with exclusive skins for the Slayer, mech, and dragon. Additionally, buyers of a GeForce 50 series graphics card (RTX 5070 and above) can receive a free copy of the game until May 21, 2025 .