DOOM: The Dark Ages is the next chapter in Bethesda’s rebooted era of DOOM. Early Access is a common incentive of modern-day pre-orders and bonuses, so let’s see if the two come together like Super Shotguns and Imps.
You’d think if you’re having to wait a few years for a new game, you can wait another few days. But you don’t necessarily have to do this, thanks to Early Access. Most big releases nowadays include the option through special editions for a greater fee. Unless you’ve been living under a Cacodemon-sized rock, DOOM: The Dark Ages is a big game.
The shooter’s hype and anticipation are bigger than any of the game’s guns, so let’s check if it has Early Access possibilities.
Can You Play DOOM: The Dark Ages With Early Access?

DOOM: The Dark Ages has 2-Day Early Access if you secure your copy ahead of time.
If you don’t want to wait until the May 15 release date, you should consider Early Access. This gives you a chance to play The Dark Ages up to 48 hours ahead of schedule. More details on how to get it and its start times are below.
How to Get DOOM: The Dark Ages Early Access
The Premium Edition and Collector’s Bundle both include 2-Day Early Access. Meaning, if you’re prepared to pay a bit more, you can start playing The Dark Ages as early as May 12 instead of its official May 15 release date.
These are more expensive editions compared to the Standard Edition. They come with a variety of goodies (depending on which one you opt for), and one of the biggest perks is Early Access.
The Premium Edition will set you back $99.99 or £99.99, whereas the Collector’s Bundle is an eyewatering $199.99 or £199.99.
DOOM: The Dark Ages Early Access Start Date & Times
The expected start time for DOOM: The Dark Ages is May 12 at 8 PM EDT.
Here are the expected Early Access start times in major regions.
| Region | Release Time |
|---|---|
| United States (EDT) | May 12, 2025—8:00 PM |
| United States (CDT) | May 12, 2025—7:00 PM |
| United States (PDT) | May 12, 2025—5:00 PM |
| United Kingdom (BST) | May 13, 2025—1:00 AM |
| New Zealand (NZST) | May 13, 2025—10:00 PM |
| Australian East Coast (AEST) | May 13, 2025—10:00 AM |
Let us know if you’re picking up DOOM: The Dark Ages and if you’re going all in on Early Access. You can do so by leaving a comment below and by taking the conversation to the official Insider Gaming forum. Also, our weekly newsletter is free and rounds up the hottest gaming gossip for you.
DOOM looks as cool as you’d expect. If you’re keen for more guides, we have more coverage, including its Xbox Game Pass status and Trophy List.



