Recommended Free Tools
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 shield attacks. For release order, play Eternal first; for story chronology, start with The Dark Ages, a prequel. There is no universal winner—the better next game depends on the combat pace you want.
Should you play Doom Eternal or The Dark Ages?
Use the combat style you want as your deciding factor. Bethesda describes Eternal as high-speed, push-forward combat: you keep moving, evade threats and switch tools to generate the resources needed to survive. The Dark Ages shifts the emphasis to holding your ground, reading attacks and using the Shield Saw to block, parry, deflect or bash enemies.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
- Pick DOOM Eternal if you want rapid movement, frequent evasion and a combat loop that rewards juggling weapons and abilities.
- Pick DOOM: The Dark Ages if you want more deliberate, defensive-aggressive combat, larger spaces to explore and adjustable game-speed and parry settings.
These are differences in design, not proof that one game is better for every player. The Guardian and GameSpot describe The Dark Ages as slower or more grounded than Eternal; those are reviewers’ characterizations, not a controlled head-to-head measurement. Le Monde praises its core combat and Shield Saw but is less impressed by some mech and dragon sequences. Read the reviews.
PC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchHow the combat loops differ
DOOM Eternal: keep moving and manage resources
Eternal links aggressive play to survival. Chainsaw kills refill ammunition, Flame Belch helps you regain armor, and Glory Kills restore health. That creates a loop of identifying what you need, choosing the right tool and staying mobile while you pursue it. Bethesda describes the game’s signature approach as “high-speed, push-forward combat.” Bethesda’s campaign overview.
#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.
DOOM: The Dark Ages: block, parry and press forward
The Dark Ages centers its combat on the Shield Saw, which can block, parry, deflect, bash and be thrown. Melee weapons reinforce close-range pressure, while firearms and the shield give you several ways to respond to threats. Official materials also describe larger play spaces, secrets and upgrades, plus sequences involving an Atlan mech and dragon combat. The game-speed slider and adjustable parry settings let players tune parts of the experience. See the official gameplay features.
The practical difference is what the games ask you to pay attention to: Eternal emphasizes movement and resource choices, while The Dark Ages puts more weight on timing blocks and parries. If you liked the former’s constant motion, the newer game’s slower rhythm may feel like a change rather than a straightforward upgrade.
Rank #2
- Brand Name:Xbox
- Video game region: region free
- Display Platform: PS5
Release order versus story order
The two orders point in opposite directions because The Dark Ages is a prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal. Bethesda presents it as a jumping-on point for newcomers. Eternal, released in 2020, came before The Dark Ages, released in 2025. Bethesda’s platform announcement identifies the prequel; its Eternal announcement describes that game’s single-player campaign.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors- Release order: DOOM Eternal, then DOOM: The Dark Ages. Choose this if you want to follow the series’ release sequence and encounter its faster combat design first.
- Story chronology: DOOM: The Dark Ages, then DOOM Eternal. Choose this if you want to begin with the prequel’s earlier point in the story.
Neither route is mandatory. Bethesda calls The Dark Ages a newcomer-friendly starting point, while playing Eternal first follows the actual release sequence.
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.
What Revelations adds to The Dark Ages
Revelations, the first major expansion for The Dark Ages, is available as of October 4, 2026. In a July 1, 2026 preview, Xbox Wire reported an estimated 10–12 hours of content across a story campaign, arenas and new Ripatorium content. That is an estimate, not a guaranteed completion time. The expansion adds the Chain Spear and new movement options, combining a dash and grapple hook with the base game’s heavier combat approach. Game director Hugo Martin described the intent this way: “We’re going to make the tanky Dark Ages Slayer fly.” Xbox Wire’s expansion preview.
If you are choosing based partly on how much current content is available, this expansion strengthens the case for The Dark Ages. Check availability and what is included in the relevant edition on your platform before buying; current regional editions and prices are not established here.
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!
Where you can play The Dark Ages
Bethesda’s launch announcement listed Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5 and PC. That confirms the platforms and access route named at launch, but not present Game Pass catalog availability or current store listings. Confirm availability in your region before choosing a platform. The announcement also described a Collector’s Bundle with a metal key card, SteelBook case and 12-inch DOOM Slayer statue; it does not establish present stock. Platform announcement · Collector’s Bundle details.
Steam player ratings: a dated snapshot, not a head-to-head verdict
Steam showed 20,040 English reviews with 86% positive and 564 recent reviews with 90% positive for DOOM: The Dark Ages when accessed October 4, 2026. Storefront totals and recent-rating percentages change over time. These figures describe that game’s Steam reviews at that date; they are not critic scores and do not compare it with Eternal. Steam listing.
Quick Recap
A final way to choose
- Choose Eternal for speed, evasion and a combat loop built around using different tools to recover ammunition, armor and health.
- Choose The Dark Ages for shield-centered combat, parrying, larger spaces and adjustable pace settings.
- If you are new to the series, decide whether you would rather follow the release sequence or begin with the prequel’s story chronology.
- If additional campaign content matters, factor in Revelations and verify its availability and edition details for your platform.
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.
