"DOOM: The Dark Ages' Physical Copy Demands 80 GB Download, Sparks Fan Outrage"

DOOM: The Dark Ages has sparked outrage among its fanbase due to the game's physical edition containing a mere 85 MB on the disc. Dive into the details of how fans accessed the game prematurely and catch a glimpse of its official launch trailer.

DOOM: The Dark Ages Shipped Early

Only 85MB Included in the Disc

The fan community of DOOM: The Dark Ages is up in arms following the discovery that the game's physical copy contains only 85 MB. Scheduled for release on May 15, some retailers surprisingly shipped the game ahead of schedule, even before the premium edition's promised 2-day early access.

The frustration escalated when fans realized they needed to download a massive 80 GB to play the game. This was brought to light by Twitter (X) user @DoesItPlay1 on May 9, who shared detailed insights and screenshots from their PS5. The screenshots confirmed that the game disc's file size was a mere 85.01 MB, and an internet connection is necessary not just for updates but to play the game at all.

The backlash against Bethesda has been significant, with fans feeling cheated out of a true physical ownership experience. Many criticized the environmental impact of producing discs that are essentially useless without a hefty download, leading some to opt for the digital version instead. This approach by Bethesda has evidently not sat well with the community, leaving them with no alternative but to download a large amount of data upon the game's launch.

An Amazing Game

Despite the controversy surrounding its physical release, early feedback from Reddit suggests that DOOM: The Dark Ages itself is a hit. Fans who managed to play the game have shared their experiences, praising its story, UI, weapons, and overall gameplay. Reddit user TCXIV, after receiving the collector's edition, described the game as an "amazing game, what a trip," and shared numerous screenshots showcasing various elements like menus, the interface, bestiary, demons, cutscenes, and major spoilers.

At Game8, we've awarded DOOM: The Dark Ages an impressive score of 88 out of 100. We commend it for its brutal revival of the DOOM series, moving away from the aerial combat of DOOM (2016) and Eternal towards a more grounded, gritty combat experience. For a deeper dive into our review, be sure to check out our detailed article below!