DOOM: The Dark Ages – Cloud, PC and Xbox Series X/S (May 15)
After a long wait, DOOM fans finally have something new to sink their teeth into – though it’s a departure from what they’re used to. DOOM: The Dark Ages serves as a prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal (2020), putting players in the boots of the DOOM Slayer, now a “superweapon of the gods” battling demonic forces in a kingdom under siege. For the first time, the series trades its signature techno-demonic sci-fi setting for a dark medieval world. Instead of the fast-paced, acrobatic combat seen in previous entries, The Dark Ages emphasizes slower, more tactical melee-focused battles.
Combat in DOOM: The Dark Ages centers around brutal, medieval-inspired weapons like the “Shield Saw” – a vicious hybrid of shield and circular saw used for both defense and offense. A new parry system allows players to block incoming attacks and strike back with devastating counterblows. The arsenal also includes heavy weapons such as a bone cannon and a shrapnel gun, staying true to the gritty, grounded tone. To shake things up, the game features special sequences where players take control of a towering mech named Atlan or ride into battle on a fire-breathing dragon.
