Game Overview

DOOM: The Dark Ages is the fierce prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, available soon on Steam. Dive into the origins of the legendary DOOM Slayer as you battle hellish hordes in a gritty medieval setting.

Unlike previous titles' fast-paced run-and-gun style, this game introduces a "stand and fight" combat system focused on tactical blocking, parrying, and brutal melee with the innovative Shield Saw.

Ride a fearsome Mecha Dragon and pilot the colossal Atlan mech to crush your enemies. Journey through a dark medieval world corrupted by demonic forces as you discover the origins of the eternal conflict.

View on Steam
DOOM: The Dark Ages gameplay

The Slayer's Origin

Witness the birth of a legend as you take on the role of the DOOM Slayer in his formative days, setting the stage for the events of DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal.

Medieval Hell

Explore a twisted dark fantasy world where demonic corruption meets medieval architecture, creating an atmospheric backdrop for your bloody conquest.

New Combat System

Master the revolutionary "stand and fight" combat approach, balancing defensive parries with devastating offensive strikes using the Shield Saw.

DOOM: The Dark Ages - Pre-order Countdown

Witness the legendary origin of the DOOM Slayer and experience the revolutionary "Stand and Fight" combat system. Available on all platforms on May 15, 2025.

365
Days
23
Hours
59
Minutes
59
Seconds

Standard Edition

  • Complete game experience
  • Classic armor skin
$39.99 Pre-order
Recommended

Deluxe Edition

  • Complete game experience
  • Year Pass (including 3 DLCs)
  • Exclusive weapon skin pack
$59.99 Pre-order

Collector's Edition

  • All Deluxe Edition content
  • Limited edition Slayer statue
  • Art book and digital soundtrack
$99.99 Pre-order
DOOM: The Dark Ages - Combat Scene
DOOM: The Dark Ages - Demonic Enemies
DOOM: The Dark Ages - Environment Design
DOOM: The Dark Ages - Weapon Close-up
PC / Steam
PlayStation 5
Xbox Series X|S

Game Features

Discover the groundbreaking features that make DOOM: The Dark Ages a revolutionary entry in the legendary franchise.

Stand and Fight Combat

Master the new Shield Saw to block, parry, and launch devastating shield tosses. Unlike traditional DOOM's run-and-gun approach, The Dark Ages rewards tactical combat and well-timed counters.

  • Parry and stagger mechanics
  • Shield toss abilities

Epic Boss Battles

Face off against powerful foes like the Vagary Champion and Agaddon Hunter, each requiring unique strategies and mastery of the combat system to defeat.

  • Multi-phase boss encounters
  • Challenging mechanics

Ride and Rampage

Soar on the Mecha Dragon and command the towering Atlan mech to dominate the battlefield. These powerful vehicles provide unique combat opportunities and traversal options.

  • Mecha Dragon aerial combat
  • Atlan mech destructive power

Weapon Mastery

Unlock and fully upgrade a variety of weapons including the Super Shotgun and Power Gauntlet for maximum carnage. Each weapon has a unique mastery challenge.

  • Extensive upgrade trees
  • Mastery challenges

Achievement System

Unlock 28 achievements on Steam, including weapon mastery challenges, secret collectibles, and campaign milestones that will test your skills to the limit.

  • 28 Steam achievements
  • Secret collectibles

PC Optimization

Fine-tune your experience with best graphics settings and benchmark your rig for smooth performance, including support for DLSS 4 and FSR 3.0.

  • DLSS 4 and FSR 3.0 support
  • Extensive graphics options

Player Highlights

The DOOM community is buzzing with epic moments from DOOM: The Dark Ages. Players love the satisfying parry and stagger mechanics, the thrill of mastering every weapon, and the adrenaline rush of riding the Mecha Dragon into battle.

DOOM: The Dark Ages - Official Gameplay Trailer

DOOM: The Dark Ages - Combat Showcase

DOOM: The Dark Ages - Boss Battle Compilation

"The stand and fight combat system completely reinvents what we know about DOOM while staying true to the brutal core of the franchise."

- DoomGuy92, Reddit

"Riding the Mecha Dragon feels absolutely epic - swooping down on demons with aerial attacks never gets old. This is exactly what DOOM needed!"

- HellWalker, Steam Reviews

"The Shield Saw is a game-changer. Blocking, parrying and then countering with a brutal glory kill feels so satisfying. Can't wait for the full release!"

- SlayerElite, Discord

Join the DOOM Community

How to Play Bad Parenting

Immerse yourself in this psychological horror experience with our comprehensive gameplay guide. Follow these instructions to fully experience the game's narrative depth.

Getting Started

System Requirements

Windows 10/11, 4GB RAM, DirectX 11 compatible graphics card

Installation

Download from Steam, extract files, and run the installer

Game Controls

Movement

WASD Keys

Interact

E or Left Click

Run

Left Shift

Look Around

Mouse Movement

Essential Tips

Dark Environment

Play in a dimly lit room to enhance the atmospheric experience. The game's visuals are optimized for dark environments.

Audio Experience

Use headphones for the best experience. The game features detailed spatial audio that enhances the horror atmosphere.

Take Your Time

Don't rush through the game. Explore thoroughly and pay attention to environmental storytelling for the full experience.

Content Warning

This game contains mature themes including:

  • Psychological horror elements
  • References to family trauma
  • Disturbing imagery and situations

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about DOOM: The Dark Ages

When is DOOM: The Dark Ages releasing on Steam?

The game launches on May 15, 2025, on Steam, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Pre-orders are available now on all platforms with exclusive pre-order bonuses.

What are the system requirements and best graphics settings?

For optimal performance, use a 6-core CPU and GPU equivalent to or better than an RTX 2060. 16GB RAM recommended. Enable DLSS 4 or FSR 3.0 for smoother framerates, and adjust shadow and volumetric lighting for the best balance of visuals and performance.

Does DOOM: The Dark Ages support co-op multiplayer?

Currently, the game focuses on a single-player campaign. The developers have hinted at potential post-launch multiplayer content, but no co-op features have been officially confirmed at this time.

How do I unlock all achievements?

The game includes 28 achievements covering chapter completions, weapon mastery challenges, boss defeats, and collectible hunting. Some achievements require completing specific levels on higher difficulties or performing special combat feats. Detailed guides for each milestone will be available at launch.

What should I do if the game crashes on PC or Steam Deck?

Ensure your drivers are updated, lower graphics settings, and check community forums for the latest patches and troubleshooting tips. For Steam Deck users, the developers recommend using the "Balanced" performance profile and disabling some of the higher-end visual effects for the best experience.

How is combat different from previous DOOM games?

Unlike the fast-paced run-and-gun style of previous DOOM titles, The Dark Ages introduces a "stand and fight" combat system focused on tactical blocking, parrying, and brutal melee with the innovative Shield Saw. This new approach rewards strategic combat while maintaining the intensity DOOM is known for.

What is the Mecha Dragon and how does it work?

The Mecha Dragon is a rideable mechanical beast that allows players to take to the skies for aerial combat. It features a devastating fire breath attack and powerful swooping maneuvers. Players can summon the dragon at specific points in levels, and mastering its controls provides a significant combat advantage.

How many bosses are in DOOM: The Dark Ages?

The game features eight major boss encounters, including the Vagary Champion, Agaddon Hunter, Komodo Champion, and five others that have not yet been revealed. Each boss has unique mechanics and requires different strategies to defeat.

What is the Shield Saw and how does it work?

The Shield Saw is a revolutionary weapon that combines defensive capabilities with offensive power. It can block incoming attacks, execute parries when timed correctly, and be thrown at enemies Captain America-style. As you progress, you'll unlock upgrades that enhance both its defensive capabilities and offensive power.

How does DOOM: The Dark Ages connect to the DOOM timeline?

The Dark Ages serves as a prequel to both DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, exploring the origins of the DOOM Slayer and setting up the events that lead to those games. It reveals crucial aspects of the Slayer's backstory and provides context for his eternal battle against Hell's forces.