In the storied history of gaming, few titles resonate like Doom. For over thirty years, it’s defined demon-slaying mayhem. Now, Doom: The Dark Ages, launched on May 15, 2025, swings a battle-axe into new territory with a medieval flair. This prequel to Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal trades neon sci-fi for gritty fantasy, securing its place among popular games in May 2025. Here’s why this blood-soaked adventure deserves your attention, whether you’re a Doom veteran or a curious newcomer.
The Slayer’s Medieval Roots
To begin, Doom: The Dark Ages rewinds the clock to the Doom Slayer’s early days, far before his futuristic rampages. Set in a grim, medieval world, you’ll face Hell’s legions amid torchlit castles and dragon-haunted skies. The story, told through vivid cutscenes and scattered lore, fleshes out the Slayer’s mythos.
Compared to the lean narratives of past Doom games, this prequel offers a deeper tale, making each demon-slaying spree feel like a chapter in an epic saga. Moreover, we can easily say that this game is at the top of the most popular games of this year. However, the competition is very strong, with Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 leading the charts in every aspect. Hence, this “new” approach to the game might help set it apart from the rest.
Combat in Doom: The Dark Ages – Shields, Saws, and Smarts
Moreover, the gameplay in Doom: The Dark Ages takes a daring turn. Unlike Doom Eternal’s breakneck, acrobatic chaos, this title slows things down, favoring deliberate, tactical combat. The star of the show is a shield that’s equal parts defense and offense. Block incoming attacks, parry demons with precision, or chuck it like a lethal boomerang to stagger foes. The Shield Saw, a chainsaw-edged monstrosity, carves through enemies with sadistic glee.
Additionally, the arsenal blends medieval flair with Doom’s over-the-top style, featuring retooled weapons like the Super Shotgun. For extra spectacle, you’ll ride dragons and pilot Atlans (imagine medieval mechs) in thrilling set pieces that shake up the shooter formula. The campaign, clocking in at 14–16 hours, is the series’ longest, giving you plenty of time to master these tools.
Doom: The Dark Ages Is A Visual Triumph on id Tech 8
Visually, Doom: The Dark Ages is a stunner. Powered by id Tech 8, it boasts destructible environments and meticulous details, from gore-streaked battlegrounds to gothic spires. On PC, ray tracing and silky frame rates make it a hardware showcase, while PS5 and Xbox Series X/S deliver crisp performance. With no last-gen versions, the game leans hard into current-gen power, creating a world that’s both haunting and immersive.
Critical Buzz – Bold, but Polarizing
Furthermore, Doom: The Dark Ages has sparked lively discussion. IGN lauds its “weighty and powerful style,” celebrating its shift from Doom Eternal’s mobility. Eurogamer cheers the “awesome murder-shield” and nostalgic Doom vibes. Yet, PC Gamer finds it overly cautious, and Rock Paper Shotgun critiques its restrictive combat and plodding exploration. Metacritic scores of 85–90 reflect strong, if not unanimous, praise. X posts mirror this split, with fans either hailing it as a masterpiece or pining for Eternal’s zip.
Platforms and Accessibility
On top of that, Doom: The Dark Ages is widely accessible. It’s available on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and launched day one on Game Pass, letting subscribers dive in instantly. The Premium Edition includes early access, a digital artbook, soundtrack, and upcoming campaign DLC. Note that PS5 physical copies require a full download, so a solid internet connection is key.
Why It Shines in May 2025
Among popular games in May 2025, Doom: The Dark Ages stands out for its fearless reinvention. Its medieval setting and methodical combat distinguish it from titles like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. The single-player focus, a deliberate choice by id Software, ensures a tightly crafted campaign. For those seeking a story-driven shooter, it’s a top contender.
Should You Jump Into Doom: The Dark Ages?
Lastly, is Doom: The Dark Ages worth your time? If you love action shooters or the Doom series, absolutely. The slower pace might surprise Eternal fans, but the shield mechanics and dragon-riding sequences bring fresh excitement. Newcomers will appreciate the approachable 14–16-hour campaign and accessibility options. With DLC planned, the adventure’s just beginning. Grab your shield, mount a dragon, and plunge into this medieval mayhem.
Key Details for Players
- Release Date: May 15, 2025
- Platforms: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Game Pass
- Campaign Length: 14–16 hours
- Key Mechanics: Shield (block, parry, throw), Shield Saw, dragon-riding, Atlan piloting
- Engine: id Tech 8 (ray tracing, destructible environments)
- Price: Standard: $70; Premium: Includes DLC, artbook, skins
- Metacritic Score: Approximately 85–90
