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DOOM: The Dark Ages News
2025
April 1
⚫︎ In a detailed interview with GamesRadar+, Hugo Martin, the director behind the Doom series, shed light on the decision to omit multiplayer from Doom Eternal. Martin explained that the choice was made early in development to focus exclusively on enhancing the campaign experience. He highlighted the game's extensive scope and limited resources as key factors driving this decision.
Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages doesn't have multiplayer because it would definitely come at the expense of
the campaign (Games Radar)
March 30
⚫︎ The official DOOM X (formerly Twitter) account announced on March 30 that new gameplay footage and hands-on impressions from the press for DOOM: The Dark Ages will be available on March 31. Fans are eagerly encouraged to stay tuned for these exciting updates and insights into the much-anticipated game.
Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages: keep an eye here tomorrow for press hands-on impressions and new gameplay (Official Bethesda X Page)
March 15
⚫︎ Bethesda unveiled the DOOM: The Dark Ages Wearable Helmet Replica in their latest merchandise unboxing video. This replica, priced at $175 USD, is now available for pre-order. It boasts a meticulously crafted design inspired by the upcoming game. As part of a larger merchandise launch ahead of the game's release, the helmet is currently in stock, with shipping planned once all items in an order are ready.
Read more: Bethesda Reveals DOOM: The Dark Ages Wearable Helmet Replica in Latest Merch Unboxing Video (Official Bethesda X Page)
March 12
⚫︎ DOOM: The Dark Ages is set to launch on May 15, offering a medieval-inspired prequel to the modern Doom saga. This new installment builds on the successes of Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal, preserving the franchise's core elements while introducing innovative gameplay dynamics. The Dark Ages delves deeper into concepts from Doom Eternal, such as the Wintherin dragons, which have inspired the semi-mechanical dragon that players will pilot in the game.
Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages May Level Up One of Eternal's Best Additions (Game Rant)
March 10
⚫︎ In an interview for PC Gamer's upcoming print issue 408 (396 in the U.S.), DOOM: The Dark Ages director Hugo Martin and producer Marty Stratton discussed the potential for challenge runs using the game's expanded melee and parry mechanics. Martin hinted that a melee-only playthrough, while "slightly out of bounds," is feasible for dedicated players.
Stratton noted that such a run, though possible, might result in a less enjoyable and somewhat janky experience, akin to the challenging pistol-only Ultra Nightmare run in Doom 2016.
Read more: You can theoretically beat Doom: The Dark Ages without using a gun, but 'You'd have a hard time, that's for sure,' says the game's director (PC Gamer)
⚫︎ In another segment of the same PC Gamer interview, Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton revealed new details about the conclusion of DOOM: The Dark Ages. Contrary to what some might expect, the story will not conclude with the Slayer being locked in a coffin, as seen at the start of Doom 2016.
Martin explained that ending with the Slayer's imprisonment would preclude future medieval-era stories, as The Dark Ages is meant to be part of a larger "Chronicles of the Slayer" saga. The game's ending will instead be crafted to allow for potential future prequels.
Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages won't end with the Slayer in a coffin waiting for the start of Doom 2016: 'That would mean that we couldn't tell any more medieval stories' (PC Gamer)
March 9
⚫︎ In an interview for PC Gamer's upcoming issue 408 (396 in the U.S.), DOOM: The Dark Ages game director Hugo Martin and producer Marty Stratton discussed the game's weapon lineup. Martin disclosed that, aside from the shotguns, the arsenal in The Dark Ages is entirely new, with even the plasma weapon undergoing a significant redesign. This deliberate choice aims to offer players fresh tools to master.
Read more: 'I think only the shotguns are the same,' says Doom: The Dark Ages director, otherwise the guns are brand-new or significantly transformed (PC Gamer)
January 23
⚫︎ Bethesda announced that the Developer Direct 2025 event is live on January 23. This showcase, featuring updates from studios like id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive, is being streamed on platforms such as Twitch and YouTube. The event kicked off at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. GMT.
Read more: id Software Reveals DOOM: The Dark Age’s Release Date During the Xbox Developer Direct (Official Bethesda X)
January 9
⚫︎ Bethesda confirmed its participation in the upcoming Developer Direct event, set for January 23, 2025. The showcase will include updates from multiple studios, including DOOM, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event will be streamed live at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. GMT on YouTube and other platforms.
Read more: id Software Confirms Participation in the January 2025 Xbox Developers Direct (Official Bethesda X)
2024
June 11
⚫︎ DOOM: The Dark Ages was officially unveiled during the Xbox Games Showcase, promising a bold reimagining of the iconic shooter series. The trailer showcased dragon riding, mech battles, and a darker, heavier visual style, while introducing significant gameplay changes, including a shield and flail for melee combat.
Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages Could Be the Series’ Boldest Reinvention Yet (IGN)
