Bethesda has stated that Doom: The Dark Ages has become the most successful release in id Software’s history, but players and analysts doubt the objectivity of this victory — given the lack of sales, declining online traffic, and mixed reviews.
Bethesda has stated that Doom: The Dark Ages has become the most successful release in id Software’s history, but players and analysts doubt the objectivity of this victory — given the lack of sales, declining online traffic, and mixed reviews.
Since the release of Doom: The Dark Ages on May 15, the game has, according to Bethesda, reached 3 million players, doing so «seven times faster» than Doom Eternal, TechSpot reported, citing a statement from Bethesda on social media X. However, analysts are already questioning the accuracy of these figures, as according to Superdata data for 2020, Eternal reached the same mark in 10 days, which means at most twice as fast, not seven.
Adding to the confusion with the numbers, Steam is showing less than impressive results. According to official data, Dark Ages' peak online player count was 31,470 players, while Doom Eternal peaked at 104,891, and Doom (2016) had 44,271. While these numbers aren’t a direct indicator of overall player numbers, they do provide a good indication of the trend in interest in the game.
It’s the third installment in id Software’s modern trilogy, moving away from a sci-fi aesthetic in favor of a medieval brutalist style with catapults, maces, and shields. Despite the change in setting, the gameplay remains fast-paced and arena-oriented. Bethesda is positioning the game as a new entry point for new fans, but longtime fans aren’t sure that’s the right course.
Despite a 9/10 rating from IGN and an 86/100 on Metacritic, average gamers remain divided in their opinions. On Reddit, user Westonsammy described the game as a «step back in gameplay» for Eternal fans, but as a better game for those who didn’t like its predecessor’s combat system. One of the main complaints is the low difficulty level, even at Nightmare level.
«In Eternal I knew for sure that Nightmare mode would be a real challenge. In TDA I can barely think on the same level,» wrote another user under the nickname Muddymess. «Maybe I could adjust the difficulty manually, but it feels a bit artificial to me.»
Our feed also featured Bethesda’s The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion Remastered, which has already become the third best-selling title of the year in the US, less than a week after its release.
