Doom Faces the Challenges of 2025 Gaming Industry
Few video game franchises are as iconic as Doom.
Since its debut in 1993, the first-person shooter has become a cornerstone of the gaming world. But even Doom and its legendary protagonist, The Doom Slayer, are navigating new hurdles in 2025 – from attracting fresh players to competing with free-to-play giants and handling rising development costs.
Executive producer Marty Stratton acknowledges the tough competition for players’ attention. “There’s so much out there – games, movies, all kinds of entertainment,” he says. Free-to-play (F2P) titles like Fortnite and Roblox dominate charts and player time, with many gamers gravitating toward these “forever games” that constantly update.
According to Ofcom’s latest Online Nation report, five of the UK’s top ten games are F2P, with Fortnite and Roblox boasting millions of active users. This environment makes it harder for premium games like Doom, which offer shorter, contained experiences, to stand out.
“But Doom’s gameplay, which can be completed in under 20 hours, fits well into modern gaming habits,” Stratton adds. The series benefits from a loyal fanbase and its global recognition, yet industry expert Rhys Elliot of Alinea Analytics warns that relying solely on hardcore fans is becoming less viable. While the number of premium game players remains flat, development costs keep rising.
Doom’s director, Hugo Martin, says early feedback on the new instalment, Doom: The Dark Ages, has been positive. Its fresh “Medieval sci-fi” setting and revamped gameplay have attracted newcomers, with many saying it could be their first Doom game.
Customisation options have also been expanded, allowing players to tailor difficulty and game elements, aiming to offer a welcoming experience for both veterans and beginners.
Price remains a sticking point. Doom: The Dark Ages costs £69.99 for the standard edition and nearly £100 for a premium version – a figure that sparks debate amid inflation concerns and potential tariff impacts on console prices.
Stratton points out that game prices haven’t surged dramatically over the years, especially when inflation is considered. He also highlights a key difference with F2P games: “With Doom, you pay once. There are no surprise costs two hours in.”
By contrast, F2P games often rely on in-game purchases that can add up over time. A TSB poll found dedicated gamers spend around £22 monthly on microtransactions.
Martin believes players are willing to pay more for a curated experience with replay value. “If you make a really good game, people will come back to it,” he says.
Looking ahead, Rhys Elliot expects more experimentation with pricing and additional offers aimed at superfans, such as early access and bonus content. Doom, available on PC and Xbox Game Pass for £14.99 a month, offers an early upgrade option for £34.99.
Subscription models like Game Pass and PlayStation Plus may shift how players approach buying games, with some opting to wait for discounts or subscription access. “You can pick up the 2016 Doom game for about £4 now,” Rhys notes.
Stratton concludes, “We consider price carefully to ensure value for players. Ultimately, the market decides what people want to spend.”
Martin adds, “There’s still a strong place for a polished, premium, single-player game that’s fun and engaging.”
