All You Should Know About 'Doom: The Dark Ages'

Doom: The Dark Ages is the next evolution of the legendary Doom franchise, bringing a medieval twist to the fast-paced, demon-slaying action that players love. Developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks, the game serves as a prequel to Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal, exploring the origins of the Doom Slayer.

With a medieval-inspired setting, large-scale battles, and brutal melee combat, Doom: The Dark Ages promises to be one of the most exciting FPS releases of 2025. Here’s everything you need to know, including Doom: The Dark Ages system requirements, gameplay features, release date, editions, and more.

‘Doom: The Dark Ages’ Release Date and Platforms

Bethesda has confirmed that Doom: The Dark Ages will launch on May 15, 2025. The game will be available on the following platforms:

PC (Steam, Epic Games Store, and Microsoft Store)
Xbox Series X/S (Available on Game Pass at launch)
PlayStation 5

‘Doom: The Dark Ages’ Gameplay Features

Unlike its predecessors, Doom: The Dark Ages takes place in a techno-medieval world, offering a new combat experience while maintaining the franchise’s signature brutality. Key gameplay features include:

Shield Saw Combat – A new weapon that acts as both an offensive tool and a defensive shield.
Mounted Battles – Ride a cybernetic dragon and pilot a 30-story Atlan mech in large-scale battles.
Melee-Focused Combat – In addition to guns, weapons like maces, flails, and gauntlets allow for intense hand-to-hand combat.
Classic Doom Gunplay – Fast-paced, visceral action with an expanded arsenal of ballistic and energy weapons.
Story-Driven Campaign – More cutscenes and character development than in previous Doom games.

‘Doom: The Dark Ages’ System Requirements

Doom: The Dark Ages is powered by the id Tech 8 engine, promising stunning visuals, advanced lighting, and hardware ray tracing support. To fully enjoy the game, your PC must meet the following specifications:

Minimum Requirements (1080p / Low Settings / 60 FPS):

OS: Windows 10 / 11 64-Bit
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 3700X / Intel Core i7-10700K
RAM: 16 GB
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 2060 SUPER / AMD RX 6600 (Ray Tracing Required)
Storage: 100 GB NVMe SSD

Recommended Requirements (1440p / High Settings / 60 FPS):

OS: Windows 10 / 11 64-Bit
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5700X / Intel Core i7-12700K
RAM: 32 GB
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3080 / AMD RX 6800 (Ray Tracing Required)
Storage: 100 GB NVMe SSD

Ultra Requirements (4K / Ultra Settings / 60 FPS):

OS: Windows 10 / 11 64-Bit
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5700X / Intel Core i7-12700K
RAM: 32 GB
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080 / AMD RX 7900XT (Ray Tracing Required)
Storage: 100 GB NVMe SSD

⚠️ A Ray-Tracing compatible GPU is mandatory for all PC configurations.

‘Doom: The Dark Ages’ Editions and Pre-Order Bonuses

All You Should Know About Doom: The Dark Ages — The collector’s edition of this game offers several incredible goodies. (Picture Credit: Bethesda Softworks)

Doom: The Dark Ages is available in three editions, each offering unique in-game bonuses and collectables.

Standard Edition ($69.99)

Base Game
Void Doom Slayer Skin (Pre-Order Bonus)

Premium Edition ($99.99)

Base Game
Void Doom Slayer Skin (Pre-Order Bonus)
Digital Artbook & Soundtrack
Exclusive In-Game Skins
Access to First Post-Launch DLC
Early Access (May 11, 2025)

Collector’s Bundle ($199.99)

All Premium Edition Content
12-inch Doom Slayer Statue
Replica Red Keycard (Classic Doom design)
Steelbook Case

Pre-orders are available via Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, Walmart, and Target for console versions, while PC pre-orders are available through Steam, Green Man Gaming, and Fanatical.