Buckle Up for Impending Doom

Following speculation that Doom III’s release date is slipping away, some US retailers have reiterated that Doom III is still on the cards for release this August. However, retailers in the UK have been informed that the PC version won’t arrive until October and that the Xbox version isn’t due until November.

Activision and iD would both be extremely keen to get the game on shelves before Q4 mania fully kicks in, otherwise Doom III will face direct competition from Half-Life 2, Halo 2 and other FPS's of that ilk. However, iD has frequently reminded enquirers that the development process would not be rushed purely to meet a nominal timetable and that the eagerly anticipated FPS will make an appearance when it’s good and ready. Retailers have also implied that the lack of substantial marketing activity thus far indicates that a summer release is unlikely.

For fans of the series who can’t wait for their fix of Doom, all is not lost. Activision announced today that a special Doom Collectors Edition will be available for PC as from July 2 in the UK. This package will include Doom, Doom II and Final Doom, as well as a bonus disc crammed full of extras. The asking price? A very reasonable £9.99.

Expect more Doom III-related news as soon as Activision announces a firm release date.