DOOM: The Dark Ages Pre-Orders Canceled Over Physical Edition

Fans of DOOM: The Dark Ages are canceling their pre-orders upon learning the game disc holds a mere 85 MB of data. Read on for details about the physical edition controversy and how to obtain an exclusive in-game skin.

Pre-Launch Developments for DOOM: The Dark Ages

Players Withdraw Pre-Orders

DOOM: The Dark Ages players are canceling pre-orders after finding the physical disc contains only 85 MB, forcing a download of over 80 GB to play. This issue emerged after some retailers shipped copies before the official launch date.

In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), user @DoesItPlay1 highlighted the problematic physical release, noting a wave of pre-order cancellations. The Does It Play account advocates for game preservation and reviews physical editions to ensure they function offline. Currently, DOOM: The Dark Ages requires an internet connection for a mandatory update to become playable.

The post sparked discussion, with many fans sharing their frustration over Bethesda's decision. Numerous players expressed disappointment, choosing to wait for the digital release instead. Initially, fans preferred a ready-to-play physical copy, arguing that an internet requirement undermines the sense of truly owning the game. Thus, Bethesda's approach to the physical edition has drawn significant criticism.

Despite the backlash, some who received early copies on Reddit praised the game's quality. Here at Game8, we scored DOOM: The Dark Ages 88/100 for its brutal reinvention of the series, swapping the aerial mobility of DOOM (2016) and Eternal for a grounded, visceral combat experience. For our full review, check out the article below!