Doom: The Dark Ages made waves pre-release by ditching multiplayer to double down on a brutal, satisfying single-player experience. While Doom’s campaigns have consistently delivered, particularly after the reboot, the absence of multiplayer might make some gamers hesitant to purchase a title they might finish in a weekend. We’ve explored every level, unearthed every secret, and maxed out all upgrades in Doom: The Dark Ages to answer the burning question: how long does it take to beat?
A demon with a sword attacking doomslayer.
Factors Affecting Playtime
Difficulty significantly impacts playtime in Doom: The Dark Ages. Our estimates assume a difficulty setting offering a good challenge without making encounters excessively lengthy.
Average Playthrough
Doom: The Dark Ages features 22 chapters, many boasting large explorable areas packed with secrets and collectibles. A natural playthrough, exploring some optional content without striving for 100% completion in each area, should average roughly 45 minutes per chapter. Aiming for full completion extends that to an hour or more per chapter.
Estimated Completion Times
Based on our experience, an average player can expect to complete Doom: The Dark Ages in 15 to 20 hours. Dedicated completionists seeking every secret, mastering each weapon, and tackling all optional objectives should anticipate around 40 hours of gameplay.
Completionist Run vs. Standard Playthrough
The disparity between a standard and completionist run highlights the depth of Doom: The Dark Ages‘ world. While a focused playthrough allows experiencing the core narrative efficiently, exploration and secret hunting add significant value for those wanting to immerse themselves fully.
Conclusion
Doom: The Dark Ages offers a substantial and rewarding single-player campaign. Whether you’re a speedrunner aiming for a brisk playthrough or a completionist eager to uncover every hidden corner of hell, this game offers a challenging and engaging experience with a playtime tailored to your preferred approach. So, gear up, prepare for demon slaying, and dive into the darkness.
