DALLAS, June 8 -- The thing that changes everything in DOOM: The Dark Ages is not a door or a boss or a new map. It's a weapon. The Chain Spear, the centerpiece of Revelations - the game's first paid downloadable content - does something the base game's formidable arsenal never quite managed: it makes range feel like a reward, not a concession.

Bethesda Softworks and id Software announced the expansion on Saturday, confirming a July 7 release alongside a free update called Ripatorium 3.0. The paid content runs $19.99 for players who bought only the standard edition of The Dark Ages, which launched in May. Premium Edition and Collector's Bundle owners receive it at no additional cost.

The story drops the Slayer into territory the main ga...