Controversy Surrounds DOOM: The Dark Ages Launch – PS5 Physical Copies Require Full Download
DOOM: The Dark Ages, one of the most anticipated games of 2025, is facing a rocky launch. While excitement builds for its medieval demon-slaying action, a growing controversy is brewing around the physical release of the game on PlayStation 5. What started as anticipation has quickly turned into frustration for many gamers due to the limited content included on the physical disc.
Reports are surfacing that the PS5 retail edition of DOOM: The Dark Ages shockingly requires a full game download. According to multiple sources (including confirmation from Does It Play), the Blu-ray disc contains a mere 85MB of data – essentially just enough to verify the license. Gamers are finding they cannot even launch the game without downloading the remaining hefty portion of the game files.
This situation is drawing comparisons to Nintendo Switch 2's Game Key Cards, where limited game data is stored on physical media, however, in their case, it is clearly stated on the box. With DOOM: The Dark Ages, the only indication of the required download is a small "Internet Required" disclaimer on the cover. Many fans feel this is misleading and disrespectful, especially given the long wait for a new installment in the iconic DOOM franchise.
Adding fuel to the fire, the game itself has already leaked online days before its official release. Someone who obtained the Collector's Edition early has reportedly shared extensive gameplay details, including story spoilers, enemy encounters, and cutscenes. This leak has created a minefield for fans eager to experience the game fresh, forcing many to avoid social media to prevent any spoilerific surprises.
While early reviews of DOOM: The Dark Ages are generally positive, praising its brutal combat and enemy variety, the issues surrounding the physical release and the online leak are casting a shadow over the game's launch. Bethesda has yet to address the criticism regarding the minimal data on the game disc.
The question remains: Is this a sign of things to come, where physical game copies become little more than glorified license keys? What are your thoughts on this approach to physical game releases? Let us know in the comments below!
