Game and artwork provided by Bethesda
Review by Jon Donnis
Doom: The Dark Ages is the latest instalment in the legendary first-person shooter franchise, developed by id Software and published by Bethesda Softworks in 2025. Marking the eighth main entry and the third in the modern series, it takes players back in time, setting the story long before the events of the 2016 reboot. This prequel explores the origins of the Doom Slayer, immersing players in a gritty techno-medieval war between humanity and the demonic forces of Hell.
Unlike its fast-paced predecessors, Doom: The Dark Ages shifts the gameplay towards a more grounded and deliberate style. The combat feels weighty, reflecting the Doom Slayer's transformation into an ironclad force of nature. Enhanced melee options add a layer of tactical depth, and the introduction of slow-motion glory kills allows players to feel in control even amidst chaotic battles. The game's standout innovation is the Shield Saw, a versatile tool that can block, parry and attack with a single input, rewarding skill and timing over frantic shooting. This fresh combat mechanic redefines encounters, requiring players to engage carefully rather than relying solely on speed and reflexes.
The arsenal expands with new weapons such as the Skull Crusher, a unique gun firing bone fragments that fits perfectly with the dark medieval setting. Alongside traditional melee weapons like the iron mace and flail, these tools diversify combat styles, encouraging experimentation. Another new feature is the ability to pilot massive machines, including a cybernetic dragon and a towering 30-storey Atlan mech, adding spectacular moments that break up the combat flow and showcase the game's grand scale.
Narratively, the game delves deeper into the Doom Slayer's past, adding layers of complexity to his motivations and the brutal war he fights. Set in the kingdom of Argent D'Nur, players witness the brutal conflict between the Night Sentinels and Hell's armies, led by the cunning Prince Ahzrak. The story is richer in character development, enhanced by well-crafted cutscenes that elevate the game beyond mindless shooting. It explores themes of control, betrayal and resilience, particularly through the relationship between the Slayer and his manipulative master, Kreed Maykr.
The game's world is atmospheric and immersive. The techno-medieval aesthetic blends grim castles and ruined fortresses with otherworldly Hellscapes, creating an environment that feels both ancient and futuristic. While the graphics are solid, they tend to lean towards a muted palette, which fits the setting but may lack some of the vibrancy seen in earlier entries. The sound design is atmospheric, though the musical score does not quite reach the iconic heights of previous Doom games, which might disappoint some fans expecting bombastic metal anthems.
Despite the deliberate pacing, combat remains engaging, demanding patience and strategy rather than pure aggression. The Shield Saw system rewards mastery and keeps encounters fresh, while the variety of enemies and the introduction of massive mechanical foes prevent the gameplay from becoming stale. However, some players might find the slower pace less thrilling than the relentless action they are used to.
Doom: The Dark Ages offers a bold new direction for the franchise. It blends weighty, strategic combat with a compelling story set in a richly imagined world. Although the soundtrack and visuals may not impress everyone, the game's innovative mechanics and atmospheric setting make it a worthwhile experience. It is a welcome challenge for fans of first-person shooters seeking something a little different, and it sets a strong foundation for future additions to the series. I score Doom: The Dark Ages a solid 8 out of 10.
Out Now on Xbox
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