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DOOM: The Dark Ages Consoles – Xbox Series X Leads Performance

DOOM: The Dark Ages Consoles – Xbox Series X Leads Performance

G
GAIAJune 4, 2025
3 min read
Tech

Digital Foundry’s tests confirm that DOOM: The Dark Ages hits a flawless 60 fps on Xbox Series X, while PS5 and PS5 Pro versions occasionally dip in heavy combat. Despite PS5 Pro’s higher nominal resolution, the Xbox build remains the smoothest—at least until future patches arrive.

Console Performance at a Glance

FeatureSpecification
PlatformXbox Series X, PS5, PS5 Pro
ResolutionXbox SX/PS5: Dynamic 4K, PS5 Pro: Enhanced Dynamic 4K
Frame RateTarget 60 fps (Xbox SX stable, PS5/PS5 Pro minor drops)
Developerid Software
PublisherBethesda Softworks
Key FeatureArena-scale medieval combat
MSRPTo Be Announced

Xbox Series X: The Gold Standard

Xbox Series X flexes its hardware muscle in DOOM: The Dark Ages, locking onto a rock-steady 60 fps even when the screen overflows with demons, gore and dynamic effects. Dynamic 4K visuals remain crisp, load times are swift, and texture streaming never falters. If you prize flawless frame pacing and ultra-responsive controls, Xbox Series X is the undisputed pick.

PS5 & PS5 Pro: Stunning but Tenuous

On both PS5 models, id Software delivers the same brutal medieval carnage at dynamic 4K. Yet Digital Foundry observed periodic frame-rate dips during the most chaotic encounters. PS5 Pro ups the pixel count slightly, but it doesn’t translate to smoother play—in fact, it trails Xbox in stability. And while both consoles look spectacular, those dips can break the flow of demon-slaying mayhem.

Why Xbox Outperforms

Although the raw specs of Xbox Series X and PS5 are close, Microsoft’s ownership of id Software seems to have tilted optimization efforts toward Xbox. Combined with tight deadlines, the PlayStation builds shipped with fewer stability tweaks. In practice, this means Xbox gets the “demon’s share” of performance polish—at least at launch.

Will Patches Level the Field?

There’s reason to be optimistic. id Software has a strong track record of post-launch updates, and the observed frame dips on PS5 platforms aren’t game-breaking. Future patches may smooth out those rough spots—and even unlock advanced upscaling on PS5 Pro. Until then, Xbox Series X holds the technical crown.

The Ultimate DOOM Experience

All nitpicks aside, DOOM: The Dark Ages is a feral, creative spin on the franchise. Swapping sci-fi for swords and axes, it blends fresh weapons, foes and level designs into the classic DOOM Slayer formula. Whether you’re on Xbox Series X, PS5 or PS5 Pro, you’re in for a sun-soaked—and blood-soaked—ride through Hell’s medieval corridors.

Comparing Versions: At a Glance

  • Xbox Series X: Best 60 fps consistency, dynamic 4K with virtually zero drops.
  • PS5: Dynamic 4K, occasional frame dips under peak action.
  • PS5 Pro: Higher resolution, but still subject to the same frame-rate hiccups.

Pros & Cons

  • Pros:
    • Rock-solid 60 fps on Xbox Series X
    • Rich, atmospheric detail on all platforms
    • Fast loading and seamless texture streaming
    • Innovative medieval twist on DOOM combat
  • Cons:
    • Frame-rate drops on PS5 and PS5 Pro
    • PS5 Pro doesn’t fully leverage advanced upscaling at launch
    • Noticeable performance gap between consoles

FAQ

Q: Which console offers the best gameplay?
A: Xbox Series X delivers the most consistent 60 fps experience, especially in the most intense battles.

Q: Will PS5 versions improve?
A: Yes—id Software routinely issues patches, so expect frame-rate smoothing and potential upscaling tweaks on PS5 Pro.

Q: Any exclusive features per platform?
A: No—aside from minor performance differences, all versions share the same content and visual design.

Sources & Further Reading

Which platform will you choose for your next demon hunt? Share your thoughts below!