Blast Those F***ing Daemon's Back to Hell

DOOM: The Dark Ages is here, and it’s proof that id Software has no intention of slowing down the Slayer’s rampage. This time, we’re trading sci-fi corridors for gothic castles, swapping plasma rifles for serrated shields, and riding mechanized dragons into battle. Yes, you read that right dragons!! If that doesn’t scream “metal album cover,” I don’t know what does.

But does this medieval twist work? Is it still the DOOM we know and love? The short answer: Absolutely. The long answer? Well, let’s rip and tear into it.

DOOM: The Dark Ages takes us back in time before the events of DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal. The Slayer isn’t just a lone warrior here; he’s part of an ancient order, fighting alongside King Novik and the Night Sentinels against the demonic hordes. The story leans heavily into dark fantasy, with towering castles, cursed lands, and a villainous demon prince named Azrakh.

While DOOM has never been about deep storytelling, this entry embraces its lore more than ever. There are cutscenes, dialogue, and even moments of tragedy among the human survivors. But don’t worry this isn’t a slow-paced RPG. The game knows exactly when to let the Slayer do what he does best: obliterate everything in sight.

If you’re expecting DOOM Eternal’s acrobatic chaos, then think again. The Slayer in The Dark Ages is heavier, more grounded, and the biggest badass you could meet. Gone are the double jumps and air dashes movement is more deliberate, relying on jump pads, lifts, and ladders. But what you lose in agility, you gain in sheer brutality.

The biggest game-changer? The Shield. This isn’t just for blocking, it’s a weapon in its own right. You can parry incoming attacks, bash enemies to close the gap, and even throw it like a spinning saw blade. Time it right, and you’ll send demons flying in a fiery explosion. It’s immensely satisfying, especially when combined with the Flail of Judgment, a melee weapon that sweeps through enemies like a medieval wrecking ball.

Of course, guns are still here eight core weapons, each with unique mods. The Combat Shotgun ignites enemies, the Doomcleaver cleaves through hordes, and the BFG-styled crossbow delivers devastating energy blasts. Ammo management is crucial, making melee combat more essential than ever.

DOOM: The Dark Ages doesn’t just tweak the combat, it expands it. Levels are massive, filled with destructible environments, hidden secrets, and some of the largest enemies in the franchise. One moment, you’re fighting in a ruined cathedral; the next, you’re piloting a mecha suit against a towering demon.

And yes, you can ride a flipping dragon, why would you. It’s not just a gimmick these sequences are exhilarating, letting you rain fire upon the battlefield. It’s DOOM at its most cinematic, blending medieval fantasy with sci-fi chaos in a way that somehow works.

Visually, The Dark Ages is stunning. The gothic architecture, eerie lighting, and grotesque enemy designs make every level feel like a twisted masterpiece. The soundtrack? Pure DOOM energy, heavy, relentless, and designed to fuel your adrenaline.

Performance-wise, the game runs smoothly, even in the most chaotic battles. Whether you’re on PC or console, expect fluid gameplay with minimal hiccups.

DOOM: The Dark Ages takes risks, and they pay off. The slower, weightier combat might not appeal to every Eternal fan, but it brings a fresh, tactical edge to the franchise. The medieval setting, shield mechanics, and larger-than-life battles make this one of the most unique DOOM entries yet.

Is it perfect? Not quite. Some players might miss the speed of Eternal, and the story, while engaging. Can feel a bit self-serious at times.; But when you’re ripping demons apart with a flail, parrying attacks like a medieval warrior, and riding your new pet dragon into battle, it’s hard to complain.

To finalise, this is the Doom I have been waiting for since Doom 2 I played on my trusty 486 pc, back in the day.

Final Score: 9/10 – A brutal, brilliant reinvention of DOOM