Mass Exodus: Doom Fans Ditch 85GB Dark Ages Pre-Orders

Some Doom fans are walking away from their Doom: The Dark Ages pre-orders, and it’s not because of the game itself. Released on May 15, 2025, this medieval spin on the iconic shooter had players hyped—until they popped the disc in. The physical PS5 and Xbox Series X copies require an 85GB download, despite being sold as discs. For a community that values tangible ownership, this feels like a bait-and-switch. Here’s what’s going on.

What’s Wrong with the Discs?

The issue is straightforward: the discs barely have any game data. The PS5 version holds just 85MB, while the Xbox version has 342MB, according to DoesItPlay.org. Both need that massive 85GB download to work. Fans who pre-ordered physical copies expected a full game they could play offline or stash on a shelf. Instead, they got what’s basically a digital code in a fancy case. One X user summed it up: “If I wanted a digital copy, I would have bought one” . It’s no surprise cancellations are piling up.

Why Does This Matter to Doom Fans?

Physical media isn’t just about playing a game—it’s about owning it. Doom fans, many of whom have been with the series for decades, see discs as a way to preserve their favorites and skip internet reliance. When a disc doesn’t deliver, it’s a letdown. This isn’t a new problem either—TechSpot points out games like Indiana Jones and the Great Circle have caught flak for the same thing. But for Doom, a franchise with such a loyal following, it stings extra hard.

How Are Players Responding?

The backlash is everywhere. On Reddit’s r/Doom, one player wrote, “I bought physical to avoid downloads, and now I’m stuck waiting for 85GB.” Others are canceling pre-orders or going digital instead. On X, hashtags like #PhysicalMediaMatters are picking up steam, with fans calling out publishers. PC Gamer notes this could signal bigger trouble for physical media in gaming.

What’s Bethesda Doing About It?

As of May 17, 2025, Bethesda and id Software haven’t said a word. No fixes, no explanations—just silence. That’s not sitting well with fans, who feel ignored. Without answers, more are likely to ditch their pre-orders. For the latest on this, check out Total Apex Gaming.

What’s Next for Physical Games?

This Doom mess is part of a bigger shift. As gaming leans digital, physical copies are losing ground. But for fans, this isn’t just about convenience—it’s about trust. What do you think? Drop your take in the comments. For more gaming news, visit Total Apex Gaming.