Doom: The Dark Ages Review - Medieval Mayhem Reborn

As a lifelong Doom fan, I was both excited and a little skeptical about the franchise’s leap into a medieval setting. After spending hours battling through gothic castles, torch-lit catacombs, and demon-infested villages, I can say with confidence: Doom: The Dark Ages is a triumphant, brutal, and wildly creative reinvention that honors everything I love about the series.

A Medieval World Like No Other

The world-building in The Dark Ages is nothing short of spectacular. Every level is dripping with atmosphere—crumbling fortresses, haunted forests, and blood-soaked arenas that feel both ancient and alive. The art direction is a perfect blend of classic Doom brutality and dark fantasy, with stained glass windows casting eerie light on piles of demon bones. Exploring every corner is a joy, with secrets, lore, and environmental storytelling rewarding the curious.

Combat: Fast, Brutal, and Deeply Satisfying

Doom’s signature combat is back and better than ever. The new arsenal is a medieval fever dream: flails that shatter bone, crossbows that pin demons to walls, and the shield-saw—a weapon that lets you block, parry, and rip through enemies in a single motion. Classic weapons like the super shotgun and rocket launcher return with brutal new twists. Enemy variety is at an all-time high, and every encounter is a test of reflexes and resource management. Boss fights are epic, multi-stage battles that demand mastery of every weapon and movement skill.

Story & Lore: The Slayer’s Darkest Hour

I was surprised by how much I cared about the story. The narrative weaves the Doom Slayer’s origins with the fate of a world on the brink of annihilation. Allies and enemies are memorable, and the game isn’t afraid to get weird with its mythology. There are moments of genuine emotion—loss, sacrifice, and even hope—amidst the carnage. The codex entries and environmental details flesh out a world that feels ancient, haunted, and alive.

Visuals & Sound: A Sensory Onslaught

Visually, The Dark Ages is a feast. The dynamic lighting, grotesque enemy designs, and fluid animations make every battle a spectacle. The soundtrack is a perfect blend of choral chants, pounding drums, and metal riffs, shifting seamlessly from haunting to heart-pounding. Sound effects are crisp and impactful, making every shotgun blast and demon roar feel visceral.

Final Thoughts

Doom: The Dark Ages is everything I want from a modern shooter: fast, challenging, and endlessly replayable. It honors the legacy of Doom while carving out a bold new identity. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, this is a must-play. I can’t wait to dive back in and discover every secret this hellish world has to offer.