Doom: The Dark Ages Review – First Impressions and Gameplay Analysis

       

Doom: The Dark Ages Review

Release Date: May 12, 2025
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
Developer / Publisher: id Software / Bethesda Softworks

Introduction

The Doom franchise catapults back to a brutal, gothic medieval world in Doom: The Dark Ages. Swapping chainsaws for crusader swords, this chapter reimagines Doom’s signature speed and gore with new era-appropriate weaponry, enemies and level design.

Story & Setting

• Premise: You’re the legendary Doom Slayer, summoned to a plague-ravaged kingdom ruled by infernal warlords.

• Tone: Dark fantasy meets visceral FPS; think crimson-stained castles, demon-infested monasteries and sorcery-fueled boss fights.

• Narrative: Minimalist—story beats are delivered via audio logs and environmental cues, keeping the focus on non-stop action.

Gameplay Highlights

• Weapons:

• Holy Cleaver (melee)—infinite ammo, energy-charged slam attack

• Crossbow of Ruin (ranged)—explosive bolts, alternate fire mode for scattershot

• Incendiary Censer (area-effect)—sprays flames in a wide cone

     

• Movement: Retains the franchise’s trademark strafing and dash—now with a “leap” to vault over cover or impale enemies mid-air.

• Enemies:

• Plague Knights (shielded melee brutes)

• Gargoyle Swarms (fast, low-HP aerial attackers)

• Witch-Priests (summon bats and cast area curses)

Pros & Cons

• ✅ Pros:
  • Gorgeously dark, atmospheric level design
  • Fluid melee+gunplay hybrid keeps combat fresh
  • Impressive boss set-pieces with memorable mechanics
• ❌ Cons:
  • Campaign clocks in at 6–7 hours—on the shorter side
  • No native mod-support at launch
  • Multiplayer modes feel tacked on

Rating

★★★★☆ (4/5)
A thrilling twist on the classic Doom formula—minus a bit of longevity and end-game depth.

Trailer

Where to Buy

• Steam
• PlayStation Store
• Microsoft Store