Doom: The Dark Ages review: "Some may appreciate the greater focus on close-quarters, but others will find themselves nostalgic for the simple joys of double jumps"

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 2:00 pm

Doom: The Dark Ages Review: A Step Back or a New Chapter?

"Doom: The Dark Ages," the prequel to the acclaimed "Doom" reboot, faces the daunting task of following up on the high-octane success of "Doom 2016" and "Doom Eternal." This review suggests the game struggles to recapture the magic, offering a mixed bag of new mechanics and familiar thrills.

The game takes players back in time, exploring the Slayer's origins before the events of "Doom 2016." The story introduces new factions, including Lovecraftian witches, but the narrative pacing and character development fall short, leaving the player feeling disconnected. The Slayer himself feels less like the rage-fueled icon of previous games and more like a blank slate, following orders without the signature fury.

Gameplay introduces a focus on melee combat with a shield and parry mechanics, which some may find engaging. However, the review notes that the new mechanics can become repetitive. The gunplay, however, remains a highlight, with satisfying weapons and fast-paced action. Vehicle sequences, including a cyber dragon and a mech, are less successful, feeling clunky and uninspired. The game also features more open-ended levels, which, while offering a change of pace, don't significantly enhance the core experience.

The absence of Mick Gordon's iconic soundtrack is a significant loss, with the new score failing to match the energy and intensity of its predecessors. Despite these shortcomings, the game still delivers moments of classic "Doom" action, with satisfying gunplay and visually striking environments. Ultimately, "Doom: The Dark Ages" is a decent entry, but it doesn't reach the heights of its predecessors, offering a slightly less engaging experience.

Keywords: Doom: The Dark Ages, Doom, Doom Eternal, Doom 2016, video game review, prequel, Slayer, melee combat, shield, parry, gunplay, Mick Gordon, soundtrack, gameplay, action game, first-person shooter, new game, gaming review.

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