5 Must-Know Reasons to Play Doom The Dark Ages This Year

Doom The Dark Ages has arrived, hitting the gaming world on May 15, 2025, with a medieval spin on the classic franchise. This prequel has sparked plenty of chatter, especially about its shield mechanics and slower combat pace. So, does it hold up? Let’s break it down in this review and figure out if it’s worth believing in the shield. For more gaming content, head over to Total Apex Gaming.

A Shift in Combat Style

The standout feature in Doom The Dark Ages is the shield mechanics. Unlike the fast, run-and-gun style of past titles, this game pushes a more deliberate approach. You can block attacks, parry enemy moves, and even bash foes with the shield. It’s a big change that adds some strategy to the fights, though it might throw off fans who loved the speed of Doom Eternal. Eurogamer points out how the shield becomes “essential for staying alive,” which really shifts the gameplay feel. New weapons, like a cannonball-firing railgun, also bring a medieval vibe to the chaos.

A Medieval World of Demons

The setting in Doom The Dark Ages mixes sci-fi with a techno-medieval twist. You’re exploring castles and battling demons with weapons that feel like they’re straight out of the Dark Ages. The story digs into the Doom Slayer’s early days, giving a cinematic backdrop that’s cool to look at, even if some say it’s a bit thin. GameSpot notes the narrative doesn’t go too deep, but the world itself—full of gritty, war-torn landscapes—keeps things engaging.

What Critics and Players Think

The game’s gotten solid praise from critics, scoring an 85 on Metacritic based on 61 reviews. The visuals and combat tweaks are highlights, though the slower pace has raised some eyebrows. Players are more split, giving it a 7.0 user score—some love the fresh direction, others miss the old frantic energy. Its launch on Xbox Game Pass has definitely helped it reach more people. PC Gamer digs into how this divide plays out among fans.

Final Thoughts

Doom The Dark Ages takes the series somewhere new with its medieval flair and shield-focused combat. It’s not perfect for everyone, but it’s got enough going for it to deserve a try—especially if you’ve got Game Pass. The visuals are killer, and the shield adds a twist that’s worth experiencing. Curious about more gaming takes? Check out Total Apex Gaming.