Doom 64's Potential Next-Gen Arrival: PS5 and Xbox Series X/S Versions Hinted at by ESRB Rating Update

Recent updates to the ESRB ratings suggest a potential imminent release of Doom 64 on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S consoles. While neither Bethesda nor id Software have made an official announcement, the updated ESRB listing strongly indicates a forthcoming release. This follows the 2020 release of an enhanced version for PS4 and Xbox One, which included graphical improvements and a new game chapter.

The original Doom 64, a Nintendo 64 exclusive, holds a nostalgic place in many gamers' hearts. The 2020 port broadened its accessibility, but a current-gen release would further expand its reach. The ESRB's proactive rating – a practice they've employed before official announcements, as seen with Felix the Cat's 2023 re-release – suggests a short wait time before the game's official launch. While a PC release isn't explicitly mentioned in the rating, the 2020 version included a Steam release, and modding communities already offer ways to experience Doom 64-like gameplay in classic Doom titles.

Bethesda's history of surprise releases for older Doom titles adds further weight to this speculation. A quiet launch wouldn't be unprecedented, given the ESRB rating's existence without a concurrent announcement.

Looking beyond Doom 64, Doom: The Dark Ages is anticipated for a 2025 launch, with potential announcements expected as early as January. Re-releasing classic titles like Doom 64 could serve as an effective marketing strategy to build anticipation for the next mainline installment in the franchise.

Key Takeaways:

• Updated ESRB ratings list Doom 64 for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.
• No official announcement from Bethesda or id Software yet.
• Past ESRB rating updates have preceded releases by only a few months.
• PC release remains unconfirmed, but previous ports and modding possibilities exist.
• Doom: The Dark Ages is expected in 2025.

(Note: This placeholder image should be replaced with an actual image of the ESRB rating if available. The original image URL is not relevant to this context.)