DOOM: The Dark Ages - Review Embargo Lifted, File Size Confirmed

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

4.5

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Early Reviews and Critical Reception of DOOM: The Dark Ages

Initial reactions to DOOM: The Dark Ages have been overwhelmingly positive, praising its seamless integration with the core gameplay loop and the addition of fresh, challenging content. Reviewers across major gaming outlets like IGN, GameSpot, and PC Gamer have lauded the expansion for several key aspects:

• Gameplay Mechanics: The refined combat system receives widespread acclaim. New weapons, such as the devastating "Hellfire Cannon," and improved enemy AI offer a fresh tactical challenge even for seasoned DOOM veterans. The level design, incorporating both familiar and innovative environments, keeps the action intense and varied.

• Story and Lore: DOOM: The Dark Ages successfully expands upon the existing lore, introducing intriguing new characters and delving deeper into the demonic realm. While not a narrative masterpiece, the story effectively serves as a thrilling backdrop to the brutal gameplay.

• Graphics and Visual Effects: Building upon the already impressive visuals of the base game, DOOM: The Dark Ages features enhanced lighting, improved particle effects, and stunningly detailed environments. The updated engine delivers a smooth and immersive experience across all platforms.

• Sound Design: The iconic DOOM soundtrack returns with its heavy metal intensity, complemented by terrifying sound effects that perfectly capture the atmosphere of hellish combat. The voice acting is also praised for its gritty realism.

Many reviewers have given DOOM: The Dark Ages scores ranging from 8.5 to 9.5 out of 10, with quotes like "A brutal and satisfying expansion that adds significant value to the base game" and "A must-have for any DOOM fan". The overall consensus points towards a highly successful and enjoyable expansion.

Confirmed File Size and Download Requirements

The file size for DOOM: The Dark Ages varies slightly across platforms:

• PC: Approximately 25 GB
• PS5: Approximately 28 GB
• Xbox Series X/S: Approximately 27 GB

These figures highlight the substantial amount of new content included in the expansion. Players should ensure they have sufficient storage space available before initiating the download.

Download times will naturally vary depending on individual internet speeds. Those with slower connections may experience longer download times. Pre-loading the expansion, where available, is highly recommended to minimize wait times. The expansion's size also represents a significant addition to the base game's file size, something to consider when planning your storage allocation.

System Requirements and Performance

For PC gamers, the minimum and recommended system requirements for DOOM: The Dark Ages are as follows:

Minimum:

• OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i5-3570k or AMD FX-8320
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 970 or AMD Radeon R9 290
• DirectX: Version 11

Recommended:

• OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
• Processor: Intel Core i7-4770k or AMD Ryzen 5 1600
• Memory: 16 GB RAM
• Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 or AMD Radeon RX Vega 56
• DirectX: Version 12

Early reports indicate that DOOM: The Dark Ages performs exceptionally well across various platforms and hardware configurations, showcasing impressive optimization. However, minor optimization issues have been reported on older hardware, necessitating potential driver updates for optimal performance.

New Content and Features in DOOM: The Dark Ages

DOOM: The Dark Ages introduces a wealth of new content designed to further enhance the already thrilling gameplay experience:

• New Weapons: The previously mentioned Hellfire Cannon, alongside other powerful weapons, adds new strategic options to combat encounters.
• New Enemies: Face terrifying new demonic creatures, each with unique attack patterns and behaviors.
• New Maps: Explore redesigned and completely new levels, filled with secrets and challenges.
• New Game Modes: Dive into exciting new game modes that offer fresh gameplay experiences.

The expansion seamlessly integrates with the base game, adding layers of depth and variety to the demonic onslaught. The unique selling point is arguably the perfectly balanced blend of familiar DOOM gameplay and innovative additions, keeping the experience fresh and challenging.

Dive into the Darkness – Download DOOM: The Dark Ages Today!

In conclusion, the review embargo lift for DOOM: The Dark Ages reveals a highly successful expansion. With overwhelmingly positive critical reception and a sizable amount of new content, DOOM: The Dark Ages is a must-have for any fan of the franchise. While some minor optimization issues might require attention, the overall experience is lauded for its exhilarating gameplay, refined mechanics, and faithful adherence to the core DOOM formula. Share your thoughts and experiences with the game—we want to hear about your demonic encounters! Download DOOM: The Dark Ages and experience the ultimate demonic onslaught today! [Link to purchase the game here]