DOOM: The Dark Ages new critic previews shines ahead of May 15th release

Although there is no new trailer for Doom: The Dark Ages, some media have already been able to play the game - and the first impressions sound promising. The medieval setting does not change the basic formula: It remains a fast, brutal and completely over-the-top DOOM, just as you'd expect.

First impressions of the tasters at IGN

IGN particularly emphasises the new weapons in DOOM: The Dark Ages. The chainsaw has been converted into a gigantic circular saw and cuts up enemies even more effectively. There is also a sword for melee attacks, which fits in well with the fast flow of the game. Despite the medieval theme, the gameplay remains fast-paced, with fluid movement and intense arena battles. The only point of criticism according to IGN: some animations don't look quite finished yet, but this will probably change by the time of release.

Meanwhile, the team at Digital Foundry have had some hands on with the game to check out the visuals of the gameplay, on a PC (though settings were not specified and some features will be available in the future such as Path Tracing). ID Software have been able to use some of the tech used in Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, giving some greatly lit environments and a more realistic feeling to the series (though of course it's still a DOOM game).

All in all, DOOM: The Dark Ages remains true to the core of the DOOM series, but brings a few fresh ideas to the gameplay. Those who already had fun with the predecessors should also get exactly what they want with Dark Ages.

The game will be officially released on May 15th and you can already pre-order it 10% cheaper as a Steam key on Gamesplanet and get a skin as a pre-order bonus.