The Doom series, launched in 1993, is one of the most influential and popular gaming franchises. As it adapts to the changing gaming landscape, its developers are navigating challenges such as attracting new players, competing with free-to-play titles, and managing costs.
“We see a lot of people saying ‘I think this is going to be my first Doom’,” says Hugo Martin, director of the latest installment, Doom: The Dark Ages. This response is encouraging for the series, which has a large and loyal fanbase.
However, the games industry faces stiff competition from free-to-play titles like Fortnite and Roblox. According to the UK’s Ofcom report, five of the top ten most played games among UK players are free-to-play titles, with Fortnite recording around 2.65m active users in May 2024.
To attract new players, Doom: The Dark Ages is positioning itself as a “Medieval sci-fi” experience with altered gameplay style. The game’s customization options also make it an attractive option for fans who want to fine-tune their play experience.
But the cost of entry remains a concern. With prices increasing due to inflation and worries over tariffs, players are being priced out of the market. Doom: The Dark Ages costs £69.99 for a standard edition or almost £100 for a Premium Edition with extras included.
To address this, Marty Stratton, executive producer, argues that free-to-play games can end up costing players more in the long run due to microtransactions and in-game purchases. In contrast, buying a game like Doom upfront eliminates unknown expenses and allows players to enjoy it without worrying about ongoing costs.
As the gaming industry continues to evolve, analyst Rhys Elliot predicts that prices will fluctuate as developers try to find the sweet spot for consumers. “Hopefully, there’ll be more competition,” he says. “It’s good for consumers.”
Doom is available on PC and Xbox via Game Pass, a subscription service priced at £14.99 a month, offering players a convenient way to access new releases without committing to a full purchase.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gezq2q911o