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Finally, *Doom: The Dark Ages* has hit the scene! Depending on whether you opted for the Premium Edition, releases vary, but the worldwide launch is set for May 15. Reviews are already coming in, and many players are jumping headfirst into the action, fighting demons and flying atop dragons right now.
The latest installment adds to a legacy that’s often hailed as one of the greatest action game franchises ever. Debuting in 1993, the original *Doom* has seen over thirty years of various releases, including the reboot and *Doom Eternal* in recent years. Now, *Dark Ages* aims to bring a fresh twist to the classic formula, drawing inspiration from the original FPS as well as influences from *Star Wars* and *Batman Year One* to create a nostalgic yet new experience.
This makes it one of the most anticipated titles for Xbox Series X, developed by id Software and Bethesda Softworks, both part of Xbox Game Studios. It will also be available on PlayStation 5 and PC, so it’s on the radar of PS5 players and PC gamers alike. Below, we dive into what we know about *Doom: The Dark Ages* and provide guide content for those ready to tackle its challenges!
Guides and Tips for Doom: The Dark Ages
Here’s everything you’ll need to know to maximize your experience in *The Dark Ages*:
- Tips and Tricks: New to this classic Slayer experience? Check out our top 10 tips to navigate the Unholy Crusade!
- Length and Time to Beat: Curious about how long it takes to finish *Doom: The Dark Ages*? It varies based on your skills and interest in collectibles, but we have the details.
- Game Lore: Need a refresher on the story? We’ve got a detailed overview of the setting and lore, spoiler-free!
Weapons and Upgrades in Doom: The Dark Ages
This installment features a blend of old favorites and new weapons, including melee attacks and the Shield Saw!
Puzzles and Secrets in Doom: The Dark Ages
- Wolf Statues: A common side quest involves the recurring Wolf Statues—find our guide to every location!
- Secret Layovers: This challenge requires locating hidden landing spots that yield rewards. Check our guide for all locations!
- Artillery Cannons: Breakthrough enemy defenses and destroy their weapons. Our guide has all the cannon locations covered!
- The Fire Door of Hebeth: Encounter a tricky puzzle with fire-spewing pipes. We’ll guide you on how to get past it!
- Wraithstones in the Spire of Nerathul: These collectibles are tough to get in Chapter 14, but our guide will make it easier!
- The Rotating Room of Water in The Kar’Thul Marshes: This optional puzzle involves spinning a room to uncover treasures. Our walkthrough gives you everything you’ll need!
Release Date for Doom: The Dark Ages
*Doom: The Dark Ages* is scheduled for release on May 15, 2025. This announcement followed the Xbox Developer Direct showcase, giving us a glimpse of the thrilling gameplay to come. If you purchase the Premium Edition, you can enjoy early access starting May 13.
Platforms for Doom: The Dark Ages
*Doom: The Dark Ages* will be available simultaneously on PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PS5. It’s great news for fans, especially in an age of exclusive titles. Additionally, it will be accessible through Xbox Game Pass, published by Bethesda.
Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer emphasized the desire to make sure everyone can play *Doom: The Dark Ages* across all platforms, crediting id Software’s push for broad availability.
Review of Doom: The Dark Ages
Our comprehensive review is available now, offering insights into what makes this installment a “solid entry” that builds on its predecessors while stumbling with some new features. The review embargo lifted ahead of early access on May 13 and the global launch on May 15.
Trailers for Doom: The Dark Ages
The first trailer provides an introduction to the Doom Slayer before his incarnation in the 2016 reboot. It features him battling through fiery castles, facing off against formidable foes, and assembling a variety of weaponry, including classic favorites like shotguns and new creations like a chainsaw shield. Excitingly, the controversial Sprint mechanic is making a comeback.
A second trailer was released ahead of the launch, unveiling some action and enriching the lore with details about a major demon king aiming to expand his dominion. A launch trailer on May 13 promises one last sneak peek of what’s to come.
The world and enemies are massive, including intimidating demon dragons. Excitement is palpable; if the gameplay matches the enthusiasm of the trailers, *Doom: The Dark Ages* could very well rank among the finest shooters ever.
Gameplay in Doom: The Dark Ages
*Doom: The Dark Ages* is primarily a single-player FPS, serving as a prequel to the 2016 *Doom* and *Doom Eternal*. Set in a time when the Doom Slayer was a weapon for deities and rulers, players will wield a range of medieval weapons instead of high-tech options from prior installments.
Creative director Hugo Martin aims for a return to the roots of classic *Doom* gameplay, emphasizing that every projectile matters and that “strafing” will play a key role. He describes the desired feel of the gameplay as more grounded, shifting from the verticality in *Doom Eternal* to a more classic side-to-side action.
Martin has teased that this entry promises expansive spaces, advanced AI, and the most powerful weapons ever seen in the franchise. He believes this new medieval fantasy theme allows for darker design elements, including weapons that break bones or cause chaos in more brutal ways. Expect exploratory “sandbox-like” environments filled with challenges and discoveries.
Stay tuned for further updates as the launch date approaches. In the meantime, check out our list of upcoming horror games and the best titles currently available on Game Pass!
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