DOOM: Dark Ages Pre-Orders Slump Over Physical Edition Issues

DOOM: The Dark Ages is experiencing widespread pre-order cancellations as players discover the physical edition only contains 85 MB of data. This revelation has sparked controversy among collectors. Read on to understand the physical release controversy and how players can still obtain an exclusive in-game skin.

DOOM: The Dark Ages Pre-Launch Updates

Backlash Over Physical Edition

Gaming communities are reacting strongly to news that DOOM: The Dark Ages' physical edition only includes an 85 MB installation file, requiring a mandatory 80+ GB download to play. The controversy intensified after some retailers shipped copies before the official release date.

Game preservation advocate @DoesItPlay1 highlighted the issue on social media, noting that many collectors have withdrawn their pre-orders. This account specializes in evaluating physical game releases for offline functionality, and their findings reveal that DOOM: The Dark Ages requires an internet connection for essential updates before becoming playable.

The discussion post gathered significant attention, with players expressing frustration at Bethesda's approach to physical media. Many enthusiasts argue this decision undermines game ownership, as the physical edition doesn't offer full functionality without online connectivity. Some collectors are holding out for digital versions instead.

Interestingly, early recipients who played the game have shared positive impressions on Reddit, praising its gameplay. Our review at Game8 awarded DOOM: The Dark Ages 88/100, highlighting its brutal reinvention of the franchise with grounded combat replacing the aerial mechanics of previous entries. For our complete evaluation, see the article below.