DOOM: The Dark Ages Release Date and Controversy Over Difficulty Settings
DOOM: The Dark Ages, the highly anticipated new installment in the DOOM series, is set to release on May 15, 2025. However, the game has faced some pre-release criticism, dubbed “Woke Ages” by some, due to its new customizable difficulty settings.
These settings allow players to tailor their experience with a range of sliders, adjusting the game’s challenge to their preference. This customization has drawn criticism from certain circles, prompting game director Hugo Martin to address these concerns in a recent video.
# DOOM: The Dark Ages Difficulty Options Explained
According to Hugo Martin, the new difficulty sliders aren’t simply about making the game easier. They’re designed to offer increased personalization and replayability. “These sliders allow the game to be both accessible to newcomers and more challenging for experienced players,” Martin stated. “If you prefer to slow things down, you also have the option to increase the difficulty. This allows players to experience the classic DOOM feel in different ways.”
> Hugo reacts to: Sliders in DOOM = Too Easy? pic.twitter.com/pIU4f0TEFZ
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> — DOOM (@DOOM) March 19, 2025
Martin emphasized that these features enhance DOOM’s signature “3D bullet hell” style. For example, players can reduce enemy attack speed while increasing their damage, making the game more strategic. This encourages players to deeply explore the game’s mechanics beyond simply killing demons.
# Game Director Responds to “Woke Ages” Criticism
The game director firmly rejected the “Woke Ages” label. “These settings are simply about offering more options,” Martin explained. “It’s about making the game accessible to everyone while still providing a unique experience for hardcore players.” He also added that these sliders increase the game’s replayability, allowing for new experiences with different combinations of settings each playthrough.
DOOM: The Dark Ages aims to appeal to both long-time DOOM fans and newcomers alike with its customizable difficulty. Hugo Martin’s explanations aim to quell criticism while the new mechanics are generating excitement among players. This latest installment of DOOM seeks to honor the series’ legacy while also catering to the needs of modern gamers.