Home >  News >  DOOM: The Dark Ages Pre-Orders Plunge Over Collector's Set Backlash

DOOM: The Dark Ages Pre-Orders Plunge Over Collector's Set Backlash

Authore: StellaUpdate:Dec 15,2025

DOOM: The Dark Ages Receives Massive Pre-Order Cancellations Following Disappointing Physical Edition

Fans of DOOM: The Dark Ages are canceling their pre-orders after learning the physical game disc contains a mere 85 MB of data. Read on for details about this physical release problem and how players can obtain an exclusive in-game skin.

DOOM: The Dark Ages Pre-Launch Updates

Fans Cancel Their Pre-Orders

DOOM: The Dark Ages Receives Massive Pre-Order Cancellations Following Disappointing Physical Edition

Players are canceling their DOOM: The Dark Ages pre-orders upon discovering the game disc holds only 85 MB, forcing a mandatory download of over 80 GB to actually play. This situation arose after some retailers shipped copies ahead of the official release date.

In a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), user @DoesItPlay1 highlighted this physical release misstep, noting that many fans have chosen to cancel their orders because of it. The Does It Play account focuses on game preservation and reviewing physical editions, advocating for games that function without an internet connection. Currently, DOOM: The Dark Ages requires an online update before it can be played.

DOOM: The Dark Ages Receives Massive Pre-Order Cancellations Following Disappointing Physical Edition

The post sparked discussion, gathering fan feedback on Bethesda's unpopular decision. Many have voiced frustration and disappointment, deciding to wait for the digital release instead. Initially, fans preferred having a ready-to-play physical copy, arguing that requiring an internet connection undermines a sense of true ownership. Therefore, Bethesda's approach to the physical edition has drawn significant criticism.

Despite the controversy, some players who received early copies have praised the game on Reddit, calling it amazing. Here at Game8, we rated DOOM: The Dark Ages 88/100 for its brutal renaissance of the series, trading the aerial mobility of DOOM (2016) and Eternal for a grittier, ground-based combat experience. For our full review, check out the article below!