Movies

10 Xbox Game Pass Games To Play After DOOM

BBG News

Frankly, nothing quite compares to the thrill of DOOM: The Dark Ages, but you might as well attempt to satiate the DOOM-shaped void within you. For over four decades, DOOM has been associated with rapid, adrenaline-pumping demon-hunting action. Not many series have endured like DOOM without significantly altering its fundamental mechanics, which makes it hard for other series to match its greatness, even though numerous attempts have been made.

DOOM: The Dark Ages debuted directly on Xbox Game Pass, thereby expanding its reach to a broader audience than usual. This also means it’s now part of an expansive, varied collection of games, encompassing various genres and hailing from diverse regions across the globe. If you’ve completed the main story of The Dark Ages and are seeking another form of entertainment (perhaps before embarking on a new playthrough at a higher difficulty level?), here are some recommendations drawn from the extensive Game Pass library. Not all of these games mimic the style of DOOM, so regardless of your preferred aspect of the original, there’s something for everyone.

1. STALKER 2 Is An FPS With A Great Sense Of Challenge

Survive The Zone

If you find the challenge in single-player FPS games, especially DOOM, irresistible, then perhaps you should consider taking on the open-world survival of STALKER 2. The STALKER series is renowned for its demanding difficulty: ammo is scarce, errors are severely penalized, and opponents won’t think twice about attacking in large groups – does this resonate with your gaming experience?

In contrast to DOOM, STALKER 2 presents a unique experience. Instead of a linear shooter, it offers an expansive open-world RPG setting where exploration is encouraged and rewards uncovered secrets. Additionally, the game focuses on narrative choices and flexibility, allowing you to align with different factions and characters as you progress through its storyline. While both games belong to the horror genre, STALKER 2 adopts a distinct approach by placing players in a nuclear wasteland teeming with unfathomable horrors.

2. Diablo 4 Provides Dark Fantasy Demon-Killing Action

Plus, New Seasonal Content

If you’re drawn to the ominous atmosphere and gritty aesthetics of DOOM, then Diablo 4 might be just what you’re looking for. This game is set in the world of Sanctuary, where you’ll confront insane cultists who have unleashed Lilith, a demon. You’ll battle through endless waves of nightmarish creatures and venture into treacherous dungeons, all while tailoring your character to your preference. As you progress, you’ll become stronger with an almost limitless array of potential builds. If you’re after a challenging gaming experience, Diablo 4 allows you to ramp up the difficulty for a truly intense journey.

Absolutely, Diablo 4 offers a distinct gaming experience compared to DOOM. It leans more towards an isometric action RPG, with a heavy emphasis on character development and customization. However, it could still cater to the craving for dark fantasy and demons that you might have. Furthermore, the introduction of seasonal content extends its longevity far beyond the relatively brief campaign of DOOM.

3. Dead Space Is One Of Game Pass’ Greatest Horror Games

Zombies In Space

Among the numerous terrifying games available on Game Pass, one that stands out is the title Dead Space. Originally launched in 2008 (with its 2023 remake also accessible on Game Pass), Dead Space tells the story of engineer Isaac Clarke, one of the few survivors of a Necromorph attack aboard the spaceship Ishimura. Unlike the fast-paced chaos of DOOM, the gameplay in Dead Space is more deliberate and tactical, but it’s just as dark and gory.

If you’re a fan of games that delve into the terrifying unknown, boasting an original sci-fi backdrop, chilling creature designs, and survival mechanics, then “Dead Space” is right up your alley. The game sets you in a challenging situation where resources are scarce, creating a tense, ominous atmosphere akin to “DOOM”. If horror elements from “The Dark Ages” pique your interest, “Dead Space” could be an excellent choice for your next gaming adventure.

4. Neon White Is An FPS That Prioritizes Snappy Movement

Not Quite A Deckbuilding Roguelike

If you’re searching for something that offers a unique twist on the DOOM universe, then you might want to consider giving Neon White a try. While it is an FPS game, its primary emphasis lies in parkour, a style of movement not too dissimilar from the swift, agile maneuvers found in DOOM. Additionally, this game boasts a unique visual design (with demons making an appearance, albeit with a fresh interpretation) and a pulsating soundtrack by Machine Girl.

Instead of following a typical gameplay structure, Neon White employs a card-based system to keep gameplay engaging and each playthrough unique. In this game, various weapons are symbolized by distinct cards, allowing you to either employ them or discard them for performing special acrobatic maneuvers. This game requires swift thinking and rewards quick decisions, prompting players to revisit levels multiple times (similar to DOOM) in order to achieve the optimal time.

5. Wolfenstein: The New Order Is A Chaotic FPS

Same Engine, Different Dev

Originally, Wolfenstein and DOOM were cut from the same cloth: Both creations of John Carmack and John Romero, the initial games in both series shared a lot in common, being similar in appearance, gameplay, and overall feel. However, as time passed, these franchises evolved differently; even though they are now owned by Microsoft, Wolfenstein is currently developed by MachineGames, whereas id Software continues to work on DOOM.

Among the games on this list, it’s likely that “Wolfenstein: The New Order” bears the closest resemblance to “DOOM: The Dark Ages” in terms of gameplay, given they were both developed using the same game engine. Interestingly, while set in a different time and place, the alternate-history setting of “Wolfenstein: The New Order”, where Nazi Germany emerges victorious from World War II, shares an equally bleak and oppressive atmosphere with “DOOM: The Dark Ages”. There are multiple “Wolfenstein” games available on Game Pass, including the classic “Wolfenstein 3D”, but I’d suggest starting your journey with the highly acclaimed reboot.

6. Gears Of War Is Great For Chaotic Co-Op

Campaign & Multiplayer Available

If you found multiplayer modes lacking in DOOM: The Dark Ages, Gears of War could potentially satisfy that desire. Launched in 2008, this third-person shooter marks the beginning of Marcus Fenix’s tale, a key figure in mankind’s battle against an underground alien faction named the Locust. You’ll engage in intense, tumultuous battles against hordes of enemies, and it’ll be quite a fight for survival; the original Gears of War can be especially challenging.

Besides the main storyline, you also have the option to engage in online cooperative play or player versus player matches with Gears of War, adding a significant amount of replay worthiness to the game even after finishing the campaign. The revamped edition, titled Gears of War: Reloaded, is set to launch this summer and will be accessible via Game Pass; until then, the original version is readily available in your library.

7. Oblivion Remastered Lets You Fight Demons In A Medieval Setting

A More Lighthearted Fantasy – At Times

If your initial fascination with DOOM stemmed from its medieval setting and demonic antagonists, then perhaps you’d enjoy delving into Oblivion Remastered. This remake of Bethesda’s pioneering RPG provides an unparalleled level of freedom within a stunning, immersive fantasy realm. Moreover, it allows you to engage in intense battles against swarms of demons, as you strive to thwart their plans for global domination in a disturbing alternate dimension.

Once more, “Oblivion” stands out – it’s an unadulterated medieval fantasy RPG with a tendency to adopt a lighter, sometimes humorous tone compared to “DOOM“. The characters and combat are more flexible, and the gameplay is more lenient. However, it’s just as chaotic, and there are some parallels; if nothing else, it could serve as a refreshing break after “The Dark Ages“!

8. Carrion Is A Gross, Gory “Reverse-Horror” Game

Horror With A Unique Twist

If you’ve ever pondered about switching sides in a game of DOOM and controlling one of the demons, then the game Carrion could be an intriguing choice for you. In Carrion, you assume the role of the monster, a horrifying creature with long tendrils and multiple mouths filled with blood and gore. Your objective is to squeeze your wriggling body through narrow spaces and break down walls to uncover hidden corridors, consuming the scientists who created you while trying to escape from the research facility where you’re confined.

As you progress, your capabilities advance by absorbing fresh genetic components, making you more robust and teaching you new talents. The creature in the game resembles something straight out of DOOM, yet despite significant differences in gameplay and visuals, enthusiasts of one game will discover numerous appealing aspects in the other.

9. Quake Is A Classic Fast-Paced Shooter

All 4 Mainline Quake Games Are On Game Pass

Following the groundbreaking work in the FPS genre with games like DOOM and Wolfenstein, id Software moved forward to develop a new series: Quake. Unlike DOOM, which primarily offered single-player campaigns with an optional multiplayer mode for deathmatches, Quake was designed to significantly broaden the possibilities for competitive play, and it certainly delivered on that promise.

At a point, the term “Quake” was often used interchangeably with multiplayer First-Person Shooter (FPS) gaming. It offered an extensive range of multiplayer modes, including cooperative play, team deathmatch, and free-for-all. You can still relish those multiplayer modes today through the enhanced version of “Quake” provided by Game Pass. Moreover, you’ll find their three primary sequels, “Quake 2“, “Quake 3“, and “Quake 4“, on the service if you have a soft spot for any of those games.

10. DOOM 1 & 2 Are Also Available On Game Pass

The Ones That Started It All

The classic versions of DOOM have traveled a significant distance from the past, yet the initial games continue to be relevant. With their pioneering 3D graphics and revolutionary first-person shooter gameplay, they may seem outdated in modern playthroughs. However, given their significance in video game history, they remain captivating even today.

Regardless of whether you’re new to the series with ‘The Dark Ages’, or if you’ve got fond memories of the original games, there’s something for everyone in this classic collection. With your Game Pass subscription, you can dive right into ‘DOOM 1’, ‘2’, ‘3’, and ’64’, along with the recent reboot ‘DOOM Eternal’. Each one offers a thrilling, invigorating gameplay experience to continue after finishing ‘DOOM: The Dark Ages’.

Read More

2025-05-23 08:44

Previous post Victoria and David Beckham Show Unity at TIME100 Dinner Despite Family Feud with Brooklyn
Next post Pokémon TCG Pocket drops trailer for a new themed booster pack, Extradimensional Crisis