DOOM: The Dark Ages launched on May 15, 2025, according to Bethesda, and its minimum PC target is 1080p at 60 FPS on Low settings. Bethesda requires a hardware ray-tracing-capable GPU even at minimum, plus 16GB of RAM and 100GB free on an NVMe SSD. The trailer once described as “new” is now an older launch-era announcement: Official Trailer 1 was published June 9, 2024.
When did DOOM: The Dark Ages release?
Bethesda lists May 15, 2025, as the release date for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox App for Windows PC, Steam and PlayStation 5 on its support page. Steam displays May 14, 2025, on its store listing. Neither page explains the one-day difference; a regional or time-zone date boundary is a possible explanation, not a stated reason.
The game is a single-player prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, as described on Bethesda’s game page.
What are the minimum PC specs?
Bethesda’s minimum target is 1080p, 60 FPS and Low settings. These are the publisher’s system targets, not a guarantee for every PC or settings combination.
#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.
| Requirement | Bethesda minimum |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 10 or Windows 11, 64-bit |
| CPU | AMD Zen 2 or Intel 10th generation; 8 cores / 16 threads at 3.2GHz or better. Examples: Ryzen 7 3700X or Core i7-10700K. |
| GPU | NVIDIA or AMD GPU with hardware ray tracing and at least 8GB dedicated VRAM. Examples: RTX 2060 Super or RX 6600. |
| Memory | 16GB RAM |
| Storage | NVMe SSD with a capacity of at least 512GB and 100GB available |
Bethesda explicitly says hardware ray tracing is required on PC, including for the minimum configuration. A GPU without hardware ray-tracing support does not meet the listed minimum, regardless of its other specifications. The figures and targets in this section are from Bethesda’s PC requirements.
What PC does Bethesda recommend for 1440p?
The recommended target is 1440p at 60 FPS on High settings. The key step up from minimum is a newer CPU generation, 32GB of RAM and a ray-tracing GPU with at least 10GB of VRAM.
Rank #2
- Get a head start on slaying demons with the Premium Edition, including 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.
| Requirement | Bethesda recommended |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 10 or Windows 11, 64-bit |
| CPU | AMD Zen 3 or Intel 12th generation; 8 cores / 16 threads at 3.2GHz or better. Examples: Ryzen 7 5700X or Core i7-12700K. |
| GPU | NVIDIA or AMD GPU with hardware ray tracing and at least 10GB VRAM. Examples: RTX 3080 or RX 6800. |
| Memory | 32GB RAM |
| Storage | NVMe SSD with a capacity of at least 512GB and 100GB available |
What does the Ultra 4K target require?
For 2160p (4K) at 60 FPS on Ultra settings, Bethesda lists the same CPU generation and core guidance as its recommended tier, but raises the GPU requirement to at least 16GB of VRAM. RAM and storage remain at 32GB and 100GB available on an NVMe SSD.
| Requirement | Bethesda Ultra 4K |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 10 or Windows 11, 64-bit |
| CPU | AMD Zen 3 or Intel 12th generation; 8 cores / 16 threads at 3.2GHz or better |
| GPU | NVIDIA or AMD GPU with hardware ray tracing and at least 16GB VRAM. Examples: RTX 4080 or RX 7900 XT. |
| Memory | 32GB RAM |
| Storage | NVMe SSD with a capacity of at least 512GB and 100GB available |
How to check whether your PC meets the target
- Choose the target first. Compare your PC with the 1080p Low, 1440p High or 4K Ultra column, rather than treating a match for one tier as a match for all three.
- Check GPU ray tracing and dedicated VRAM. Hardware ray tracing is mandatory; then compare your GPU’s dedicated VRAM with the tier’s minimum.
- Check CPU generation and core/thread count. Bethesda specifies both generation and 8 cores / 16 threads at 3.2GHz or better. Its named processors are examples of the listed tier, not a complete compatibility list.
- Check memory and drive space. Confirm the RAM amount and that 100GB is available on an NVMe SSD. The stated 512GB figure is the drive’s capacity, not the amount of free space the game requires.
Bethesda says DOOM: The Dark Ages uses idTech8 and features dynamic interactive ray-traced lighting and shadows. Those are publisher-described design details; the published specifications do not establish independent performance results.
Rank #3
- 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 trailer is the “new” trailer?
The wording is outdated for a current article. Bethesda Softworks’ verified listing dates Official Trailer 1 to June 9, 2024. Bethesda’s game page also lists Trailer 2 and the launch trailer, so Trailer 1 should not be presented as newly released in 2026.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What is available now?
Bethesda’s game page lists DOOM: The Dark Ages | Revelations as available July 8, 2026. The live Steam listing includes a Premium Edition with the campaign DLC, digital artbook and soundtrack, and Divinity Skin Pack. Edition details and storefront availability can change, so consult the linked official page or current store listing for what is offered at purchase.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Arm yourself with the DOOM: The Dark Ages Limited Edition controller, inspired by the DOOM Slayer’s armor.
- Battle hordes of demons with DOOM Slayer inspired matte green armor that features 3D, silver helmet spikes and plated sheathing across the top case.
- Grab hold of the rubberized grips outfitted with a leather-like feel to keep you close to the action. Take aim with a sinister red thumbstick that matches the DOOM Slayer’s chest port.
- Access ancient power with green ABXY buttons summoned from the Sentinel alphabet. Raise your Shield Saw with the left orange trigger locking in your lethal intent.
- Includes DOOM Slayer Executioner Skin downloadable content for DOOM: The Dark Ages (game sold separately).
Rank #4
- PREMIUM UPGRADE CONTENT — Adds the Revelations campaign DLC, Digital Artbook and Soundtrack, and Divinity Skin Pack to DOOM: The Dark Ages. Base game required (sold separately).
- BECOME THE SLAYER — Step into the blood-stained boots of the DOOM Slayer in a cinematic prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal.
- STAND AND FIGHT — Take on demon hordes with the Super Shotgun, the versatile Shield Saw, and other devastating weapons in grounded combat.
- TOOLS OF WAR — Take flight atop a Mecha Dragon, climb into an Atlan mech, and use the enhanced glory kill system against demons.
- REIGN IN HELL — Witness the creation of a legend as the Slayer fights Hell’s forces and confronts their leader in a medieval war.
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