DOOM: The Dark Ages is looking like a game that will totally change the DOOM series. With its new combat system, epic scale, massive monsters, and an open world to explore, it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting releases of 2025. Get ready to experience Hell in a whole new way.
The latest installment in the Doom franchise, Doom: The Dark Ages, has taken the gaming world by storm. With its medieval-inspired setting, innovative gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals, the game offers a fresh take on the iconic series while retaining the brutal and fast-paced action fans have come to expect. It is all set to launch on May 15, 2025. Here, we break down the top features that make this game a must-play for Doom enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
DOOM: The Dark Ages moves away from the fast-paced, airborne combat of DOOM Eternal and adopts a more grounded, tank-like combat style. The Slayer now operates as an "iron tank," focusing on strategic positioning and brutal melee attacks. A new melee arsenal features medieval weapons like a spiked flail, electrified gauntlet, and the Shield Saw, a hybrid weapon that blocks, decapitates, and grapples across gaps. The Dynamic Glory Kill system is also revamped, allowing for unsynced, physics-driven executions. A new parry mechanic rewards precision, offering counterattacks after deflecting projectiles.
The biggest new addition is the Atlan Mech, a giant 30-story robot that you can pilot to fight massive demon bosses, like something straight out of a Godzilla movie. Then there's the Cyber-Dragon, a fire-breathing dragon with Gatling guns that lets you fly through the skies while blasting enemies. Both the mech and dragon will have unique skins in the Premium Edition.
The Dark Ages is the first game in the DOOM series to introduce an open world. The levels are massive and intermix medieval castles, dark forests, and hellish landscapes. You can use the Shield Saw to discover hidden paths and unlock secrets. There are lots of upgrades and lore to find while exploring, encouraging you to go back and replay levels.
The game has 22 sliders that can adjust every parameter from enemy toughness to damage output and game speed, allowing players to fine-tune the experience to their taste. And, of course, it has accessibility options like simplified platforming and slowed projectiles, so players of all skill levels can jump in and enjoy.
DOOM: The Dark Ages makes use of an upgraded idTech engine that supports features like Ray Tracing and Path Tracing, making the lighting and materials look super realistic. The game also boasts seamless streaming with amazingly fast loading times, even if there are hundreds of enemies on screen at once.
As a prequel, The Dark Ages delves into the origins of the Slayer and his role as a weapon for gods and kings. The story connects to the events of DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, with cinematic cutscenes and new characters, all still staying true to DOOM's environmental storytelling.
For those who want extra goodies, the Premium Edition of the game offers 2-day early access starting May 13, along with bonus content like a digital artbook, the soundtrack, and a Divinity Skin Pack. Pre-orders also come with an exclusive Void Slayer Skin.