Shooter fans may be in store for an unhappy surprise on the Doom: The Dark Ages release date. Physical versions are available for the Xbox and PS5, but only a small amount of data is on the discs. Console players must download nearly all of the game’s files before booting the anticipated Bethesda title.
Buyers who received the game early revealed that the Xbox disc contains 324 MB of files. Meanwhile, its PS5 counterpart includes only 85 MB of data. Consequently, the game requires a giant download, taxing bandwidth-limited households. For PS5 digital versions, the total file size of Doom: The Dark Ages is around 85 GB. Since Ultra HD Blu-ray discs hold up to 100 GB, the data should fit on the media. The Xbox Series X is at a disadvantage with Blu-ray discs limited to 50 GB.
Xbox console owners are more accustomed to relying on an internet connection to play new releases. Many Series X discs demand an online connection to install and activate. On the other hand, the practice is less common with PS5 games. These titles often need updates to the latest versions to unlock multiplayer features. However, single-player games like Doom: The Dark Ages could function without a persistent online connection.
Frustrated gamers bemoan recent titles that are digital downloads masquerading as physical releases. Buyers can still sell or trade these games as they aren’t tied to online accounts. Nevertheless, game preservation supporters worry about servers remaining functional in the future.
PlayStation fans are quick to blame Microsoft for the recent trend of internet-dependent installations. Doom: The Dark Ages is another in a series of first-party Xbox games landing on the rival PS5. Still, with the Switch 2 introducing data-less Game-Key Cards, physical media is gradually being phased out.
Notebookcheck has posted its full Doom: The Dark Ages review. Also, there is a video with laptop performance and gameplay impressions below:
I became interested in technology at a young age and enjoyed discovering the latest innovations. While earning college degrees in publishing, I created several PC hardware and gaming websites. My passion has always been to guide readers on what products can truly improve their lives. After many years as a Tech Writer for Game Rant, I’m anxious to share my knowledge with a new audience at Notebookcheck.
