Doom: The Dark Ages marks a major shift for the franchise. This time, it dives into a slower, medieval sci-fi experience that doesn’t let go of its violent roots. ID Software has designed the game as a large-scale single-player campaign, cutting multiplayer to focus entirely on gameplay depth.
Campaign Length and Level Design
The game features 22 levels—far more than the 13 found in Doom 2016 or Doom Eternal. These levels are expansive, encouraging exploration through semi-open world designs. Developers suggest the total playtime could be double that of Doom Eternal depending on how players approach side content and hidden areas.
One standout region is the Cosmic Realm, which features massive Lovecraft-inspired architecture and enemies aligned with Hell’s forces. The scale and detail hint at how much freedom players will get while exploring.
Brutal New Enemies and Bosses
The Cosmic Baron is one of several new enemies. Wielding twin blades, it uses psionic attacks from range and brute force up close. Another newcomer, the Kakodan, is a hybrid creature crafted from both demonic and cosmic influences.
Among boss-level threats, the Agodon Hunter stands out. Described as a spiritual successor to the Marauder, this boss tests players on every skill learned during earlier stages. Expect dodge timings, projectile control, and parrying to all play a role during these encounters.
Rebuilt Arsenal and Enhanced Gore
Nearly every weapon has been redesigned. Only the shotguns retain their familiar handling. The plasma rifle, for instance, now performs differently, while new additions like the Reaver Chain Shot introduce fresh combat mechanics. This mace-based weapon can chain attacks from a distance using a charged Chaos Sphere, pushing melee gameplay into new territory.
The Skull Crusher weapon works in tandem with an overhauled gore system. Referred to as “Destructible Demons version 3”, this system boosts dismemberment effects, sound design, and physics-based interactions. Enemies don’t just fall apart—they rip and twist realistically, enhancing the game’s brutal feedback loop.
Melee-Only Runs Are Possible
New melee tools include a shield saw, flail, electrified gauntlet, and the Reaver Chain Shot. These weapons allow for varied and aggressive close-quarters combat. According to Hugo Martin, finishing the game using only melee gear is possible—though incredibly challenging.
No Multiplayer, All Campaign
Unlike previous titles, Doom: The Dark Ages skips multiplayer. Executive producer Marty Stratton explained that this decision freed the team to create features like the mech and dragon mini-games. These elements add variety while keeping everything rooted in single-player design.
The developers believe that most players come for the campaign, so all resources went toward building the most ambitious solo experience in the series.
Engine Upgrades and Performance
The new IDTech version powers larger environments, more enemies, and deeper visual effects. The game includes dynamic lighting, ray tracing, and improved destructibility.
On PC, the specs are demanding. Minimum settings require a Ryzen 7 3700X or i7 10700K paired with an RTX 2060 Super or RX 6600 and 16 GB of RAM. Recommended specs call for a Ryzen 7 5700X or i7 12700K with an RTX 3080 or RX 6800 and 32 GB of RAM. Either way, 100 GB of storage space is required.
Future Possibilities and DLC Plans
The game pauses the modern Doom storyline to serve as a prequel, but it may not be the last to do so. Developers confirmed that the ending won’t connect directly to Doom 2016. That means more medieval-style sequels could follow under the “Chronicles of the Slayer” banner.
Single-player DLC is also in development. While details remain limited, post-launch expansions will continue the story and likely introduce new weapons or areas.
