Tag: Doom: The Dark Ages

  • DOOM: Dark Ages Crashes on ROG Ally Due to Old AMD Drivers

    DOOM: Dark Ages Crashes on ROG Ally Due to Old AMD Drivers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Launch Issues: DOOM: The Dark Ages has been launched after early access, but many players on devices like the Asus ROG Ally are experiencing crashes and performance problems.

    2. GPU Driver Problems: Players often receive warnings about outdated GPU drivers, particularly affecting handheld systems, and updating these drivers is challenging due to slow manufacturer support.

    3. Developer Acknowledgment: The developers are aware of the driver-related issues and are working on fixes, with some users noticing improvements after recent driver updates, though problems persist for many.

    4. Performance Discrepancies: The game runs better on the Steam Deck due to Valve’s cohesive software and driver setup, highlighting differences in performance reliability between Linux and Windows handheld devices.

    5. Market Impact: The situation illustrates a larger issue in the handheld PC market, where inconsistent driver updates can prevent users from accessing new game titles, limiting the potential of powerful hardware.

    DOOM: The Dark Ages has finally been launched after an early access phase for Premium and Collector’s Edition players. The game is meant to work on various Windows 10 and 11 devices, including portable gaming PCs. However, many players are facing significant problems. For instance, on the Asus ROG Ally with an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, reports suggest that the game crashes shortly after starting, even when it is set to low graphics and running at about 30 frames per second.

    GPU Driver Challenges

    As reported by PC Gamer, players might see a warning message when they try to start the game, which says that the GPU driver on their device is outdated for this game. The article also points out that updating GPU drivers for the ROG Ally is difficult, as Asus has been slow in providing updates, making users wait for the manufacturer. A user on Reddit mentioned that they also received a GPU driver warning when trying to play DOOM: The Dark Ages through Xbox Game Pass, followed by a black screen that caused their PC to freeze, requiring a restart.

    Developers’ Response

    The developers have recognized the issues related to drivers that affect handheld systems like the ROG Ally and Legion Go and are actively working to fix these problems. There have been recent graphics driver updates for the ROG Ally, and some users noticed improvements after installing the update. Nonetheless, community feedback indicates that certain players still face problems. For instance, a Reddit user reported struggling to find the latest AMD drivers in Armoury Crate, implying that the update might not be detected automatically for everyone.

    User Experiences

    Another Reddit user named StevWong shared their experience, stating that even with low settings, the game froze after just a few seconds. They reported, “Inside game I set most things to LOW and then I was inside the game, for 2 seconds. Because when I was trying to walk and turn, my Ally hang. It did not register any input from all the Ally buttons. The fan was running like crazy as well. I had to long pressed the Ally on off button to force turned off the Ally.”

    In a recent YouTube video by Deck Wizard, the game starts for a moment on the ROG Ally before it freezes. Although it runs at 30 frames per second on low settings with FSR activated, the footage reveals the game crashing soon after launch, likely due to outdated GPU drivers. The video illustrates the difficulties faced by handheld Windows devices when the drivers provided by vendors lag behind game releases.

    Performance Comparisons

    While the Z1 Extreme chip is technically able to deliver solid performance for AAA games, as indicated in benchmarks by Tom’s Hardware, its performance is highly dependent on the quality of the software. If driver support is inconsistent or outdated, the hardware’s full capabilities cannot be realized.

    On the other hand, DOOM: The Dark Ages performs more reliably on the Steam Deck, which benefits from Valve’s cohesive SteamOS software and driver setup, helping to prevent the performance issues seen on the ROG Ally. A quick SteamOS update resolved launch problems, showcasing Valve’s ability to provide fixes directly through its integrated operating system. This situation emphasizes a widening gap in handheld gaming reliability between Linux and Windows platforms. Valve’s integrated system has enabled the Steam Deck to avoid the fragmented support that devices like the ROG Ally face, where driver updates depend on multiple vendors.

    Market Implications

    This scenario sheds light on a broader issue within the expanding handheld PC market. Without a steady flow of OEM driver updates, users may be excluded from major new titles, regardless of how powerful their hardware might be. As game developers increasingly incorporate advanced technologies such as ray tracing, AI-driven upscaling, and real-time global illumination, outdated drivers are likely to pose a growing obstacle for otherwise capable systems.

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  • Doom: The Dark Ages Launch Struggles vs. Doom Eternal Player Count

    Doom: The Dark Ages Launch Struggles vs. Doom Eternal Player Count

    Key Takeaways

    1. Doom: The Dark Ages launched on May 15th, but its player count on Steam is significantly lower than Doom Eternal’s during its launch period.
    2. The game’s peak player count is 30,812, compared to Doom Eternal’s 104,891 and Doom 2016’s 44,271.
    3. The higher price of Doom: The Dark Ages ($69.99) is a barrier for players, especially when compared to Doom Eternal’s launch price of $39.99.
    4. The lack of a multiplayer mode and limited replayability may deter players from purchasing the game, especially given the trend of cheaper AAA titles on Game Pass.
    5. High system requirements for Doom: The Dark Ages could also limit its audience, even though those who do play it generally enjoy the game.

    The launch of Doom: The Dark Ages appeared to be very promising, as it received good review scores. However, the praise has not yet resulted in a strong player count on Steam. Currently, the new game from id Software is having a hard time reaching the player numbers seen during the launch of Doom Eternal in 2020. The situation might improve as the weekend approaches, but there are several reasons that could be hindering sales of Doom: The Dark Ages.

    Launch and Player Count

    After its early access period, the game officially launched for everyone on May 15th. Some players in certain time zones could start playing on the night of May 14th. With over 24 hours of data available, the highest Steam player count recorded is 30,812. In contrast, Doom Eternal had already gathered 104,891 players by this time. The Doom reboot from 2016 reached a peak of 44,271 players.

    Comparison to Doom Eternal

    Doom Eternal was released on a Friday, giving it a boost going into the weekend. Doom: The Dark Ages might see an increase in player numbers in the coming days. However, it faces challenges that its predecessor did not encounter. A significant factor is the price difference: Doom Eternal’s Standard Edition launched at $39.99, while the cheapest version of Doom: The Dark Ages is priced at $69.99. Players outside the U.S., particularly in the UK, are paying even more than what is typical for PC games.

    Game Pass and Replay Value

    Unlike Doom Eternal, which was not available on Xbox Game Pass at launch, the higher price of $69.99 might be hard for players to justify for a campaign that can be completed in about 12 hours. There are currently no indications of a multiplayer mode being added. Replayability is essential, especially since many AAA titles can be accessed on Game Pass for a lower monthly cost.

    Despite receiving positive reviews, the Steam ratings are not enough to boost the new Doom’s sales. Additionally, the high system requirements for Doom: The Dark Ages on PC could be another barrier. Many players who do own the game enjoy it, but encouraging a broader audience to buy it is proving to be a challenge.

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    Doom: The Dark Ages Launch Struggles vs. Doom Eternal Player Count
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  • Win MSI’s Vector 16 HX AI Gaming Laptops in Dark Ages Giveaway

    Win MSI’s Vector 16 HX AI Gaming Laptops in Dark Ages Giveaway

    Key Takeaways

    1. MSI Giveaway Details: MSI is giving away three Vector 16 HX AI laptops as part of a global event celebrating Doom: The Dark Ages, managed through Gleam.io.

    2. Entry Requirements: Participants can increase their chances of winning by completing tasks listed on the giveaway page, with each completed task counting as one entry.

    3. Deadline and Winner Announcement: The entry deadline is May 30, and winners will be announced on June 20, with notification via social media.

    4. Laptop Specifications: The MSI Vector 16 HX AI features an Intel Core Ultra 9 processor, GeForce RTX 5080 GPU, up to 96 GB of RAM, and a 16-inch high-refresh-rate display.

    5. Included Extras: Winners will receive a one-month subscription to PC Game Pass, allowing access to Doom: The Dark Ages and additional games, though it’s unclear if any extra items will be included with the laptops.

    With Nvidia celebrating the release of Doom: The Dark Ages by giving away a GeForce RTX 5090 GPU, MSI decided to join in on the fun. They are offering three Vector 16 HX AI laptops as part of their own giveaway. This event is managed through Gleam.io, where participants must complete certain tasks listed on the giveaway page to enter. Each task completed counts as one entry, so doing more tasks increases your chances of winning.

    Global Giveaway Details

    The MSI giveaway themed around Doom: The Dark Ages is open to participants worldwide, except for those in countries specified in the Terms and Conditions. The deadline for entries is May 30, and MSI plans to announce the winners on June 20. Winners will be contacted through their preferred social media platform. It’s important to frequently check your direct messages or email, as failing to respond within seven days could mean losing your prize.

    Specifications of the MSI Vector 16 HX AI

    The MSI Vector 16 HX AI laptop up for grabs (model number A2XWIG) was recently showcased at CES 2025. It features an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX Arrow Lake processor, a GeForce RTX 5080 GPU with 16 GB of VRAM, and can support up to 96 GB of DDR5-6400 RAM. It also includes one PCIe Gen 4 and one Gen 5 NVMe SSD slot, along with a robust 90 Wh battery.

    Additional specifications encompass a 16-inch display (QHD+, 240 Hz, IPS/UHD+, 120 Hz, mini-LED/FHD+, 144 Hz, IPS). It is unclear which specific variant will be given away. For connectivity options, there are two Thunderbolt 5.0 ports, two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, one HDMI 2.1 port, one RJ45 Ethernet jack, and a 3.5 mm combo audio jack. It also supports Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.

    Previous Promotions and Game Access

    Previously, MSI offered the same Vector 16 HX AI model at Newegg, which included a free copy of Doom: The Dark Ages, a Logitech G502 mouse, and two additional games. It’s not confirmed whether the laptops in this giveaway will include these extras. Regardless, winners will still be able to enjoy the new Doom game and more, thanks to a one-month subscription of PC Game Pass included with the laptop.

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  • Nvidia RTX 5090 Giveaway for Doom: The Dark Ages Launch Celebration

    Nvidia RTX 5090 Giveaway for Doom: The Dark Ages Launch Celebration

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia is giving away a themed GeForce RTX 5090 GPU to celebrate the release of Doom: The Dark Ages.
    2. The giveaway is open worldwide, excluding certain areas in the US, Canada, and Australia, and participants must be adults and legal residents of eligible regions.
    3. To enter, leave a comment with #RTXON on social media before 5:00 PM PST on May 22nd, 2025.
    4. Winners will be announced on a separate page, but the exact announcement date is not specified.
    5. Doom: The Dark Ages offers a unique gaming experience with significant gameplay changes and is powered by the impressive idTech 8 engine.

    Now that Doom: The Dark Ages has been officially released for everyone, Nvidia is excited to mark this occasion by giving away a brand new GeForce RTX 5090. Since it’s an Nvidia-promoted title, the GPU features a unique Doom theme with custom artwork that will surely enhance your PC setup.

    Terms and Conditions

    The rules for the giveaway are quite simple. Although Nvidia’s wording suggests the offer is only for Australia, it’s actually open worldwide, except for certain areas in the US, Canada, and Australia. To join in, you need to be an adult and a legal resident of the regions mentioned on the giveaway page.

    How to Enter

    To enter, just leave a comment saying #RTXON on this X post (or on any social media platform you prefer, like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, or Twitch) before 5:00 PM PST on May 22nd, 2025. Similar to past giveaways, the winners will be revealed on a different page. Nvidia hasn’t mentioned when they will announce the chosen gamer, so be prepared to wait a little while.

    Game Review

    In our review of Doom: The Dark Ages, we discovered that the game offers a thoroughly enjoyable experience that distinguishes itself from earlier versions. The combat feels completely different from Doom Eternal, with the shield playing a crucial role in the gameplay. Technically, its idTech 8 engine is impressive, and while the RTX 5090 will allow you to enjoy the best graphics, the game is still playable on the Steam Deck.

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  • Doom: The Dark Ages Now on GeForce Now for Performance & Ultimate

    Doom: The Dark Ages Now on GeForce Now for Performance & Ultimate

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Launch and Platforms: Doom: The Dark Ages is now available on PS5, Xbox Series consoles, and PC, and can be streamed through GeForce Now.

    2. Single-Player Experience: The game focuses on a single-player storyline set before the events of Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal, introducing new mechanics and weapons.

    3. GeForce Now Rewards: Premium members of GeForce Now can access the game and earn a free in-game reward, the Doom Slayer Verdant skin, through the Rewards program.

    4. Pricing Options: The Standard Edition is priced at $70 on PC, while the Premium Edition costs $100. GeForce Now memberships are available at $20 (Ultimate) and $10 (Performance) per month.

    5. Performance on Steam Deck: Doom: The Dark Ages runs well on the Steam Deck at 720p, despite not being officially supported, with specific hardware recommendations for optimal performance at higher settings.

    Doom: The Dark Ages has launched on PS5, Xbox Series consoles, and PC. In addition to these platforms, the game can also be streamed through GeForce Now, as Nvidia has revealed. This latest chapter in the franchise, developed by id Software and Bethesda, takes place before the events of the 2016 Doom and Doom Eternal. It offers a single-player experience focused on the storyline, featuring new mechanics and weapons.

    GeForce Now Benefits

    Nvidia is expanding its cloud gaming offerings with the introduction of several new games, including Doom: The Dark Ages. Members of the GeForce Now Ultimate and Performance tiers can access the game starting today, May 15, with some regions already having it available. Additionally, premium members can earn a free in-game reward—the Doom Slayer Verdant skin—by participating in the GeForce Now Rewards program.

    Pricing and Editions

    The Standard Edition of Doom: The Dark Ages is set at $70 for PC and can be found on Steam, Microsoft Store, and Battle.net. It’s also included with Game Pass. Those looking for more can opt for the Premium Edition, which costs $100. The GeForce Now Ultimate membership, offering features like 4K HDR, RTX support, and 240 FPS, is available for $20 monthly, while the Performance option (1440p, RTX) is priced at $10 a month.

    Performance on Steam Deck

    Interestingly, the game can be played on the Steam Deck, despite not being officially supported. It surprisingly performs well on the device, running at 720p with FSR Quality set to low. The developers suggest that to run the game at 1080p 60 FPS with low settings, you’ll need a Ryzen 7 3700X or Intel Core i7 10700K, along with either an RTX 2060 Super or Radeon RX 6600. For those aiming for 1440p on high settings, an RTX 3080 or Radeon RX 6800 is recommended.

    Other new titles that have either launched this week or are already available on GeForce Now include The Precinct, Blacksmith Master, Capcom Fighting Collection 2, and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024.

    Nvidia’s recent additions to its gaming library reflect a commitment to providing diverse options for gamers across multiple platforms.

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  • Doom Dark Ages Benchmark: RX 9700 XT vs RTX 5080 Performance

    Doom Dark Ages Benchmark: RX 9700 XT vs RTX 5080 Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Release Date: Doom: The Dark Ages is set to launch on May 15th, requiring hardware that supports ray tracing for optimal gameplay.

    2. Performance Comparison: Early assessments show varying performance on different gaming laptops, with the RX 9070 XT performing comparably to the RTX 5080 at 1080p.

    3. AMD vs. Nvidia: AMD’s RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT outperform similar Nvidia GPUs at 1080p, with the RX 9070 XT matching the RTX 5080 and the RX 9070 competing with the RTX 5070 Ti.

    4. Resolution Challenges: At 1440p, performance gaps remain, with the RX 9070 achieving 81.1 FPS compared to the RTX 5070’s 68.3 FPS, while the RTX 5060 Ti struggles to reach 60 FPS.

    5. 4K Performance: Doom: The Dark Ages is demanding at 4K, with even high-end GPUs like the RTX 4090 barely surpassing 60 FPS, emphasizing the need for mid-range or high-end hardware for smoother gameplay at lower resolutions.

    The newest addition to the iconic Doom FPS franchise, Doom: The Dark Ages, is scheduled for release on May 15th. Our review is already live, and overall, Doom: The Dark Ages meets expectations. This time, however, ID Software requires hardware that supports ray tracing for optimal gameplay, raising questions about how well the game will perform.

    Performance on Various Laptops

    In our assessment, we examined the game’s performance on various gaming laptops, such as the Asus ROG Strix G16 equipped with the RTX 5080 laptop GPU. We’re still finalizing our comparison with desktop GPUs. Meanwhile, TechPowerUp has been testing Doom: The Dark Ages across a range of GPUs, both newer and older.

    AMD vs. Nvidia Performance

    Interestingly, findings from TechPowerUp indicate that the AMD Radeon RX 9070 and RX 9070 XT have a distinct advantage over their Nvidia equivalents. At 1080p with the “Ultra Nightmare” graphics settings, the performance is as follows:

    The RX 9070 XT performs on par with the RTX 5080, while the RX 9070 matches the RTX 5070 Ti, marking a significant success for Team Red, as these Radeon GPUs are priced lower. In contrast, Nvidia’s new RTX 5060 Ti 16 and 8 GB versions only achieve 76 FPS.

    Increased Resolution Challenges

    When increasing the resolution to 1440p, it’s expected that the game becomes more challenging to run. Here, the RX 9070 XT and the RTX 5080 again compare closely, with frame rates of 91.8 and 96.2 FPS, respectively. The RTX 5070 Ti is now more competitive with the RX 9070 XT, registering 86.7 FPS.

    Despite this, a significant performance gap remains—about 19%—between the RX 9070, which achieves 81.1 FPS, and the RTX 5070 at 68.3 FPS. This means the RX 9070 is closer in performance to the RTX 5070 Ti than to its intended competitor, the RTX 5070. Sadly, the RTX 5060 Ti models struggle to reach 60 FPS at 1440p on max settings, which is disappointing for GPUs in the $400+ range.

    4K Performance Insights

    Doom: The Dark Ages proves to be quite demanding at 4K resolution, as even the RTX 4090 barely surpasses 60 FPS. Therefore, it’s not surprising that the RTX 5080, RTX 5070 Ti, and RX 9070 XT all fall below 60 FPS while playing.

    The RX 9070 XT now matches the RTX 5070 Ti with a frame rate of 49 FPS, but the RX 9070 and RTX 5070 still show a clear performance difference. The RX 9070 reaches 42.9 FPS, while the RTX 5070 lags behind at 37.6 FPS.

    In conclusion, Doom: The Dark Ages presents a significant challenge at 4K. However, if you possess modern mid-range or high-end hardware, you should enjoy smooth gameplay at 1440p and excellent performance at 1080p.

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    Doom Dark Ages Benchmark: RX 9700 XT vs RTX 5080 PerformanceDoom Dark Ages Benchmark: RX 9700 XT vs RTX 5080 PerformanceDoom Dark Ages Benchmark: RX 9700 XT vs RTX 5080 Performance
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  • Watch Doom: The Dark Ages on Twitch for a Free Slayer Skin

    Watch Doom: The Dark Ages on Twitch for a Free Slayer Skin

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bethesda is hosting a Twitch Drops campaign for Doom: The Dark Ages from May 12 to June 2, allowing players to unlock an exclusive Doom Slayer Guardian skin by watching on Twitch.

    2. The exclusive skin features the Slayers Club logo on the Shield Saw, promoting community pride within the game.

    3. Players can claim the skin by watching the game on Twitch and redeeming the skin code found in their Twitch inventory.

    4. Doom: The Dark Ages launches on May 14 and will be available on multiple platforms, including Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PS5 Pro, PC, and Battle.net.

    5. The game has received positive feedback for its stunning visuals and a 20-hour campaign that focuses on melee combat, incorporating new parry mechanics.

    Bethesda has unveiled a Twitch Drops campaign for Doom: The Dark Ages, allowing players to unlock an exclusive Doom Slayer Guardian skin just by watching the game. This limited-time event will take place from May 12 through June 2 and is available to all viewers who tune into the official Twitch category for the game.

    Unique Skin Details

    The exclusive skin showcases the Slayers Club logo on the Shield Saw, providing players a way to show their community pride in-game. We have put together a simple guide on how to take part and claim your reward.

    Watching and Redeeming

    To get the skin code for free, first, you need to watch DTDA on Twitch. Once you find the skin code in your Twitch inventory, you can easily redeem it following the instructions provided.

    This promotion aligns with the game’s launch on May 14th, which will be available on Game Pass, Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PS5 Pro, PC, and Battle.net. Additionally, players who opt for the Premium Edition will gain access to bonus items like the Digital Artbook, Original Soundtrack (OST), and the Divinity Skin Pack.

    Critical Reception

    In our internal assessment, Doom: The Dark Ages received acclaim for its breathtaking visuals and a 20-hour campaign that introduces a significant shift towards melee-focused combat, integrating parry mechanics with medieval violence. While this new style may split opinions among long-time fans of Doom Eternal’s fast pace, it offers a fresh perspective. Moreover, it’s compatible with Steam Deck, enhancing accessibility for players wanting action on the go.

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  • Doom: The Dark Ages x Prince St. Pizza Exclusive Skin & Game Pass

    Doom: The Dark Ages x Prince St. Pizza Exclusive Skin & Game Pass

    Key Takeaways

    1. Promotion Dates: The Hellfire Pepperoni Pizza is available from May 12 to June 15 at Prince St. Pizza locations in the U.S. and Toronto.

    2. Special Rewards: Ordering the Hellfire Pepperoni Pizza unlocks special rewards linked to the game.

    3. Game Release Date: Doom: The Dark Ages launches on May 15, 2025, for multiple platforms, including Xbox Series X|S and PS5.

    4. Early Access: Early access to the game began on May 12 for those who bought the Premium and Collector’s Editions.

    5. Game Features: The Dark Ages features a 20-hour campaign with melee combat, a parry system, and various difficulty options, set in a new medieval backdrop.

    To celebrate the release of Doom: The Dark Ages on May 15, Xbox has teamed up with Prince St. Pizza for an exciting promotion: the Hellfire Pepperoni Pizza – a spicy, Doom-themed dish packed with flavor and bonuses.

    Special Features of the Pizza

    This exclusive pizza is available from May 12 to June 15 at Prince St. Pizza locations throughout the U.S. and Toronto. With each Hellfire Pepperoni order, you unlock special rewards.

    Game Release Information

    This promotion aligns with the worldwide launch of Doom: The Dark Ages on May 15, 2025, for Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PS5 Pro, PC, and Battle.net. It will also be available on launch day for Xbox Game Pass (Ultimate and PC). As previously reported, early access began on May 12 for those who purchased the Premium and Collector’s Editions.

    Lawrence Longo, the CEO of Prince St. Pizza, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “Creating a pizza that fits the Doom world was so much fun. It’s got bold flavors, a strong attitude, and just a hint of chaos – kind of like the Slayer.”

    Game Review Highlights

    In our internal review, The Dark Ages provides an impressive 20-hour campaign with dynamic gameplay changes, featuring melee combat, a parry system, and extensive options for difficulty adjustments. While some may find the absence of Doom Eternal’s fast pace and energetic soundtrack noticeable, the new medieval backdrop and level designs bring a refreshing perspective to the series.

    In summary, this collaboration between Xbox and Prince St. Pizza is sure to excite fans.

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  • Nvidia GeForce Launches Doom: The Dark Ages Driver for Early Access

    Nvidia GeForce Launches Doom: The Dark Ages Driver for Early Access

    Key Takeaways

    1. Nvidia released GeForce Game Ready Driver version 576.40, optimizing for Doom: The Dark Ages, launching early access on May 14th and full release on May 15th.
    2. Doom: The Dark Ages, using id Tech 8, enhances gameplay for RTX users with features like DLSS Super Resolution, DLAA, and improved image clarity, especially for RTX 50 cards.
    3. A post-launch update will introduce complete path tracing with DLSS Ray Reconstruction, enhancing lighting quality.
    4. Nvidia expanded the DLSS override feature to support 15 more games and added new Optimal Playable Settings profiles and G-SYNC Compatible monitors.
    5. Gamers purchasing qualifying RTX 50 Series products can receive the Premium Edition of Doom: The Dark Ages for free until May 21st, which includes early access and bonus content.

    Nvidia has recently released its new GeForce Game Ready Driver (version 576.40), providing complete optimization for the upcoming game, Doom: The Dark Ages. This latest installment from Bethesda’s renowned series will begin its early access phase on May 14th for those who purchase the Premium Edition. The official launch is set for May 15th and it promises a significant visual upgrade for the Doom series, featuring ray tracing, DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, and Nvidia Reflex.

    Enhancements for RTX Users

    Developed using id Software’s advanced id Tech 8 engine, Doom: The Dark Ages aims to deliver an intense medieval combat experience, specifically tailored for GeForce RTX users. Owners of the RTX 20, 30, 40, and 50 Series graphics cards will benefit from features like DLSS Super Resolution and DLAA, alongside the newest transformer-based AI models that promise outstanding image clarity. Furthermore, users with RTX 50 cards can expect DLSS 4 to provide frame rates up to 4 times higher. A post-launch update will also bring complete path tracing with DLSS Ray Reconstruction, elevating lighting quality even further.

    Additional DLSS Support

    Nvidia has expanded the DLSS override feature in its application to support 15 more games, including titles like Warframe, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, and Spirit of the North 2. Additionally, this update introduces two new Optimal Playable Settings profiles and adds seven new G-SYNC Compatible gaming monitors to the mix.

    Promotional Offer for Gamers

    As part of a continuing promotion, customers who purchase qualifying RTX 50 Series graphics cards or laptops can receive the Premium Edition of Doom: The Dark Ages, valued at $99.99, for free until May 21st. This Premium Edition comes with early access, campaign DLC, a digital artbook, soundtrack, and the Divinity Skin Pack for the Slayer, dragon, and Atlan mech.

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  • Doom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam Deck

    Doom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam Deck

    Key Takeaways

    1. Initial Compatibility Issues: Doom: The Dark Ages wasn’t initially verified for the Steam Deck due to performance concerns, but updates have improved its playability.

    2. Game Settings Optimization: The best performance on the Steam Deck was achieved by setting the resolution to 1,280 x 720, disabling Depth of Field and Chromatic Aberration, and using FSR Quality for upscaling.

    3. Performance Metrics: The game generally runs at around 30 FPS, with occasional peaks of 42 FPS, but performance can drop below 30 FPS during intense battles.

    4. Consistent Performance in Mech Combat: Mech combat maintained a steady 30 FPS, indicating some areas of the game perform better than others.

    5. Gameplay Recommendations: Players may need to lower difficulty settings for a smoother experience, especially in later levels where enemy density increases.

    Doom: The Dark Ages isn’t verified for the Steam Deck, and a quick look at its system requirements suggests that the handheld may lack the necessary power to run the game. During my initial review, it wouldn’t even launch on my Deck OLED, but now things have changed. Thanks to an update (H/T Cary Golomb) for the Steam Deck preview channel (SteamOS 3.7.6), we can now get past the Bugsplat error and see how the game performs.

    Setting Up the Game

    Getting Doom: The Dark Ages to work on the Steam Deck is pretty straightforward. We adjusted the resolution to 1,280 x 720, turned off Depth of Field and Chromatic Aberration. For upscaling, we opted for FSR Quality. Switching to Balanced didn’t show much of a performance change, so either one will work fine. It’s important to disable Frame Gen as it significantly hurt performance. Everything else was set to low. We kept the game’s UI elements the same for a fair comparison with the PC.

    Performance Insights

    With these settings, we achieved a solid 30 FPS in most areas, with peaks of up to 42 FPS in less populated sections with fewer textures. However, the 30 FPS didn’t hold up during some later battles due to the high number of projectiles and monsters on screen. There were some noticeable frame drops, but it never fell below 20 FPS. Mech combat was similar, staying at a consistent 30 FPS. Switching to XeSS didn’t seem to improve things, but that’s likely due to the limited capabilities of the Steam Deck itself.

    Conclusion

    In general, Doom: The Dark Ages is somewhat playable on the Steam Deck. You might breeze through the early parts, but as you advance, expect more challenges as the density of enemies increases. If you really want to play this on the Deck, it might be a good idea to lower some difficulty settings to enhance your experience. Save the no-hit Ultra Nightmare run for a proper PC with a keyboard and mouse.

    Doom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam DeckDoom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam DeckDoom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam DeckDoom: The Dark Ages Performs Great on Steam Deck
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