Davicin49 DOOM: The Dark Ages Review

Doom: The Dark Ages is, without a doubt, the best Doom to date. It sticks to the franchise's signature formula of fast-paced, ultra-violent action, but refines and enhances it in every possible way. The biggest innovation is the introduction of the shield — a mechanic that not only adds variety, but completely reshapes the flow of combat. You can parry with it, throw it to stun enemies, and even use it as a brutal battering ram to launch yourself into demonic hordes. This new gameplay loop makes every encounter more dynamic, tactical, and relentlessly satisfying. The dark medieval setting fits surprisingly well within the Doom universe, bringing a fresh atmosphere without betraying the franchise’s essence. While the game is relatively short — around 15 hours at a standard pace — it delivers an intense, compact, and wildly entertaining experience with no unnecessary filler. There is some replay value in hunting collectibles or completing extra challenges, but it’s not a game designed for extended playtime beyond its core campaign. On a technical level, it more than holds its own. The visuals are solid nothing groundbreaking, but exactly what you'd expect from a modern release. The metal soundtrack hits just the right tone, delivering the raw energy that every Doom game demands. And the performance is flawless: not a single stutter or frame drop throughout the entire run. Doom: The Dark Ages doesn't try to reinvent the wheel — it just sends it blazing through a medieval hellscape of bullets, blood, and glory. And it absolutely nails it.