DOOM: The Dark Ages set for epic global launch on May 15, 2025 with early access, preload, and brutal new features
Bethesda has confirmed worldwide launch details for the highly anticipated DOOM: The Dark Ages, revealing when players can preload the game, start early access, and jump into the full demon-slaying action.
Set to launch globally on May 15, 2025, DOOM: The Dark Ages will be available for Xbox,PC, Steam, and PlayStation 5. Bethesda is calling it id Software’s biggest DOOM game yet, combining the iconic fast-paced combat with brutal new mechanics, weapons, and even a Mecha Dragon.
Early access begins May 13 for Premium Edition buyers
Players who purchase the DOOM: The Dark Ages Premium Edition will receive up to 48 hours of early access, allowing them to start playing at midnight UTC on May 13. This special edition also includes:
- A Digital Artbook & Soundtrack
- The Divinity Skin Pack
- Access to future Campaign DLC
Bethesda confirmed that the preload option for all players will go live on May 11 at midnight UTC, letting fans download the game ahead of launch to avoid delays.
New gameplay features and weapons
DOOM: The Dark Ages puts players in the shoes of the Slayer, now reimagined as a mythic super weapon of gods and kings. The game promises a mix of grounded, aggressive combat and new larger-than-life tools of destruction. Some highlights include:
- The return of the Super Shotgun
- A brand-new Shield Saw that doubles as both defence and offense
- A Mecha Dragon that players can ride
- The massive Atlan mech for large-scale destruction
- An enhanced glory kill system for more savage finishers
The game’s campaign will take players through demon-infested battlefields, challenging them to stand and fight in the tradition of classic DOOM gameplay.
PC requirements and ray tracing support
PC players are advised to check their system specs before launch. Bethesda noted that a ray tracing-compatible GPU is required, even at the minimum settings. This means older graphics cards that lack hardware ray tracing support will not be able to run the game.
Additionally, NVIDIA Path Tracing will be supported shortly after launch via an update.
Gamers should also reserve at least 100 GB of storage space on their systems to accommodate the full game download.
DOOM: The Dark Ages Pre-orders and more
DOOM: The Dark Ages is available for pre-order now across Xbox, PC, and PlayStation 5. For fans wanting to stay updated on everything related to the game and its developers, Bethesda encourages joining the Slayers Club community.
With just days to go before launch, Bethesda has also released an official launch trailer to give players one final look at the chaos to come.
