DOOM: The Dark Ages has officially become the biggest launch in id Software’s storied history, the developer confirmed this week. The latest installment in the legendary first-person shooter series has attracted millions of players across PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Xbox Cloud Gaming platforms since its release.
A major reason for this record-breaking launch has been the game’s day-one availability on Xbox Game Pass, letting subscribers jump into the medieval-themed demon slaying without spending extra. This marks a big win for id Software, topping previous successful releases including 2020’s DOOM Eternal.
Thank you for making DOOM: The Dark Ages the biggest launch in id's history – 7x faster to 3 million players than DOOM Eternal. pic.twitter.com/c0SKR97FO8
— Bethesda (@bethesda) May 20, 2025
While exact sales numbers haven’t been shared, the “biggest launch” claim is based on how many people are actually playing instead of just how many copies got sold. More and more, the industry cares about player numbers, especially when games are offered through services like Game Pass.
The third game in the rebooted DOOM trilogy brings some noteworthy changes to the gameplay. The Dark Ages dials things back from the lightning-fast pace of earlier games, offering more deliberate, melee-heavy action and introducing new shield moves. Players can also tweak the game’s speed and difficulty, making it easier for newcomers to get in on the action without losing that classic DOOM intensity.
Available on various platforms like Steam, Battle.net, and the Xbox app, the game has earned props for having a smooth and stable launch—something you don’t see too often these days, given how many games drop with tons of bugs. Prices vary depending on where you live, with some people outside the US dealing with prices over $80 USD. But thanks to Game Pass, a lot of folks haven’t had to worry about the cost.
Rip and tear monsters, not your wallet
DOOM: The Dark Ages‘ big debut also showcases Microsoft’s steady move to make Game Pass the go-to place for its biggest, most anticipated games. Since Microsoft bought Bethesda (which owns id Software) back in 2021, they’ve been pushing hard to use the subscription service to get more players into blockbusters like this.
Fans will notice that composer Mick Gordon, known for his epic heavy metal soundtracks in earlier DOOM games, isn’t back this time. Even so, most players seem to dig the new direction, and plenty are excited to see a fresh spin on a franchise that’s been melting faces since 1993.
