Epic Battles and Controversial Innovations: Reviews of DOOM: The Dark Ages Unveiled

The developers at **Id Software** have released the launch trailer for **DOOM: The Dark Ages** and lifted the embargo on final reviews. As a reminder, this new installment of the modern **DOOM** series serves as a prequel, exploring the war against demonic forces during the Dark Ages. The showcased video features not only the signature first-person shooting but also the brutal Slayer Rock engaging in battle using a massive mech and a flying dragon.

Most journalists have responded positively to the game, with **DOOM: The Dark Ages** achieving an average score of 84 on [Metacritic](https://www.metacritic.com/game/doom-the-dark-ages) and 85 on [OpenCritic](https://opencritic.com/game/18023/doom-the-dark-ages), along with a recommendation rate of 96%. The media has lauded the intricate combat system and the diverse arsenal of the protagonist, although some players were not fond of the expansive open-world environments and slower pace, while a few felt the game lacked hardcore elements. Criticism primarily revolves around the new gameplay features, such as the mech and dragon.

Here’s what various reviewers have to say:

Parker Green
Tommy Holloway
Orpheus Joshua
Shubhankar Parijat
Liam Croft
Jordan Middler
Scott Baird
Joel Franey
Jade King
David Jenkins
Brad Norton

The launch of **DOOM: The Dark Ages** is set for May 15 at 03:00 Moscow time on PC ([Steam](https://store.steampowered.com/app/3017860/DOOM_The_Dark_Ages/), [Microsoft Store](https://www.xbox.com/en-us/games/store/doom-the-dark-ages/9ph9x0760b0t), Battle.net), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series with full Russian localization. The game will be available from its release on Game Pass. Pre-orders will grant players early access two days prior to launch and an alternative skin for Slayer Rock.