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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Choose DOOM Eternal for fast, mobile combat and constant weapon-and-resource decisions. Choose DOOM: The Dark Ages for a heavier, more grounded rhythm built around blocking, parrying and aggressive shield attacks. The right next game depends on which combat style you want—not on a universal winner.
Should I play DOOM Eternal or The Dark Ages?
| If you want… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid movement, evasion and frequent weapon decisions | DOOM Eternal | Bethesda describes its combat as high-speed and push-forward, with resources tied to using different combat tools. |
| A weightier stand-and-fight rhythm with blocking and parrying | DOOM: The Dark Ages | Its Shield Saw supports blocking, parrying, deflection and bashing, while melee weapons reinforce close-range pressure. |
| The earlier game by release date | DOOM Eternal | It released in 2020; The Dark Ages followed in 2025. |
| The story in chronological order | DOOM: The Dark Ages | It is a prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal. |
How their combat feels different
DOOM Eternal: stay mobile and manage the loop
Eternal’s combat rewards forward pressure, movement and switching tools to keep resources flowing. Its core loop links specific actions to survival: chainsaw kills refill ammunition, Flame Belch helps generate armor, and Glory Kills restore health. Bethesda calls this “high-speed, push-forward combat.” Bethesda’s Eternal campaign overview describes the campaign and its combat mechanics.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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DOOM: The Dark Ages – PlayStation 5 | $69.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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PlayStation 5 – DOOM: The Dark Ages – Standard Edition | $89.97 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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DOOM: The Dark Ages - Premium Edition - PlayStation 5 | $94.88 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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Crimson Desert: Standard Edition - PlayStation 5 | $61.97 | Buy on Amazon |
The Dark Ages: hold ground, defend and counter
The Dark Ages shifts the emphasis toward timing and impact. The Shield Saw can block, parry, deflect, bash and be thrown; firearms and melee weapons support pressure at close range. Official materials also describe larger spaces, secrets and upgrades, alongside Atlan mech and dragon sequences. Players can adjust game speed and parry settings, allowing some control over the pace. See the official DOOM: The Dark Ages feature page for the game’s mechanics and features.
Reviewers broadly describe The Dark Ages as slower and more grounded than Eternal, but that shift is not automatically an improvement or a drawback. The Guardian contrasts Eternal’s speed and evasion with The Dark Ages’ emphasis on standing one’s ground; GameSpot also characterizes the newer game as slower, while noting that its pace suits its combat tools. Le Monde praises the core combat and Shield Saw but is less impressed by some mech and dragon sequences. Those are individual critics’ judgments, not a settled verdict for every player. The Guardian, GameSpot and Le Monde offer those perspectives.
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#1 Best Overall
- Developed by id Software, DOOM: The Dark Ages is the prequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal that tells the epic cinematic origin story of the DOOM Slayer’s rage.
- In this third installment of the modern DOOM series, players will step into the blood-stained boots of the DOOM Slayer, in this never-before-seen dark and sinister medieval war against Hell.
- A dark fantasy/sci-fi single-player experience that delivers the searing combat and over-the-top visuals of the incomparable DOOM franchise, powered by the latest idTech engine. With a customizable difficulty system, it’s the perfect entry point whether you’re new to the franchise or a long time fan.
- As the super weapon of gods and kings, shred enemies with devastating favorites like the Super Shotgun while also wielding a variety of new bone-chewing weapons, including the versatile Shield Saw.
- Experience the origin story of the DOOM Slayer’s rage in this epic, cinematic, and action-packed story.
Which should newcomers play first?
There are two sensible orders, depending on what “first” means. The Dark Ages is the chronological starting point because it is a prequel to DOOM (2016) and Eternal. Bethesda calls it a jumping-on point for newcomers. Eternal is the earlier release and a direct way to experience the series’ previous combat direction before the newer game’s heavier style. If your priority is story chronology, start with The Dark Ages; if your priority is release order or the faster combat style, start with Eternal. Bethesda’s announcement identifies The Dark Ages as a prequel and lists its launch platforms; the Eternal campaign overview describes Eternal’s single-player campaign.
Does Revelations change the recommendation?
It may, if you want more current content for The Dark Ages. Xbox Wire’s July 1, 2026 preview describes Revelations as the game’s first major expansion and reports an estimated 10–12 hours of content, including a story campaign, arenas and new Ripatorium content. That is Xbox Wire’s estimate, not a guaranteed completion time. The expansion adds a Chain Spear and movement options while retaining the base game’s timing-based combat. Game director Hugo Martin described the goal this way: “We’re going to make the tanky Dark Ages Slayer fly.” Xbox Wire’s Revelations preview covers the expansion.
Rank #2
- Brand Name:Xbox
- Video game region: region free
- Display Platform: PS5
That blend could appeal if you want The Dark Ages’ defensive-aggressive combat with additional mobility. Check availability and the contents of the specific edition on your platform before buying; current pricing, regional editions and subscription catalog status are not established here.
What does each game emphasize beyond combat?
Eternal’s campaign includes collectibles, Slayer Gates and Master Levels. The Dark Ages pairs its larger spaces with secrets and upgrades, as well as its mech and dragon encounters. Its design also gives exploration and story a stated role alongside combat: Hugo Martin told PlayStation.Blog, “There are three pillars of engagement in Dark Ages; combat, exploration and story – three reasons to play, narrative is just one of them.” PlayStation.Blog’s January 23, 2025 interview includes that comment.
Recommended Free Tools
Rank #3
- Get a head start on slaying demons with the Premium Edition, including up to 2-Days Early Access and the campaign DLC. You’ll also receive the Digital Artbook and Soundtrack, and the Divinity Skin Pack, which includes matching skins for the DOOM Slayer, dragon, and Atlan.
- Developed by id Software, DOOM: The Dark Ages is the prequel to the critically acclaimed DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal that tells the epic cinematic origin story of the DOOM Slayer’s rage.
- In this third installment of the modern DOOM series, players will step into the blood-stained boots of the DOOM Slayer, in this never-before-seen dark and sinister medieval war against Hell.
- A dark fantasy/sci-fi single-player experience that delivers the searing combat and over-the-top visuals of the incomparable DOOM franchise, powered by the latest idTech engine. With a customizable difficulty system, it’s the perfect entry point whether you’re new to the franchise or a long time fan.
- Experience the origin story of the DOOM Slayer’s rage in this epic, cinematic, and action-packed story. Mystery, challenges, and rewards lurk in every shadow of ruined castles, epic battlefields, dark forests, ancient hellscapes, and worlds beyond.
How to decide
- Pick Eternal if you want to move constantly, evade attacks and juggle weapons to generate ammunition, armor and health.
- Pick The Dark Ages if you prefer a more grounded pace, shield-based defense and parries, or you want its larger spaces and newer campaign content.
- For a newcomer, choose by priority: The Dark Ages for chronological story order; Eternal for release order and the faster combat style.
Steam’s listing for The Dark Ages showed 20,040 English reviews with 86% positive and 564 recent reviews with 90% positive when accessed October 4, 2026. These are dated, changing storefront snapshots—not critic scores, a direct comparison with Eternal, or a measure of which game is right for you. The Steam listing displays the current review figures.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Join Kliff, captain of the Greymanes, and his comrades as they embark on a relentless journey to defend Pywel and fulfill their mission.
- Along your perilous path stands both dependable allies and countless foes who will stop at nothing to see your downfall.
- Face trials to uncover the truth of the catastrophe looming over Pywel and restore peace to the continent.
- Explore the mesmerizing landscapes of the continent where mystical beings, hidden treasures, and thrilling adventures await.
- Pre-order to receive the Khaled Shield (Pre Order Code on Receipt). PS5 Editions include the Grotevant Plate Set DLC as a PS5 exclusive bonus. (In Pack DLC Voucher). Bonus DLC Includes: Grotevan Plate Helm, Grotevan Plate Armor, along with Grotevan cloak, gloves, and boots!
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
