The recently released Doom: The Dark Ages is experiencing significantly lower player engagement on Steam when compared to its predecessor, Doom Eternal. While the numbers may seem concerning at first glance, there’s a clear explanation for this disparity.

Doom: The Dark Ages launched to critical acclaim, currently holding an 87 score on OpenCritic, a testament to its strong gameplay and innovations. The Doom franchise has been a staple in the FPS genre for over three decades, and this latest entry continues to push boundaries with fresh mechanics and intense action.

Related: The Pros and Cons of Doom: The Dark Ages' Glory Kill Changes

One of the most discussed changes in Doom: The Dark Ages is its revamped Glory Kill system, which has sparked debates among fans. While some appreciate the new approach, others remain nostalgic for the classic mechanics.

According to reports from The Gamer, Doom: The Dark Ages peaked at 30,812 concurrent players on Steam, a stark contrast to Doom Eternal's all-time high of 104,891. However, it's important to note that Doom Eternal launched during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period when gaming engagement was at an all-time high.

Why Are Doom: The Dark Ages'Steam Numbers Lower?

The primary reason for the lower Steam numbers is simple: Doom: The Dark Ages launched day one on Xbox Game Pass. Since Microsoft now owns Bethesda, the game was available to millions of subscribers without requiring a separate purchase. Many players opted to experience the game through Game Pass rather than buying it on Steam.

While the Steam numbers may not reflect the game's overall success, the critical reception and Game Pass accessibility suggest that Doom: The Dark Ages is far from a flop. Fans are now eagerly awaiting news on potential DLC, which is expected given its inclusion in the Premium Edition.