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DOOM: The Dark Ages News
2025
April 1
⚫︎ In a revealing interview with GamesRadar+, Hugo Martin, the director behind the Doom series, explained the decision to omit multiplayer from Doom Eternal. The choice was made early in development to fully concentrate on enhancing the campaign. Martin highlighted the game's scope and resource allocation as key factors influencing 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 account (formerly Twitter) teased fans on March 30, announcing that new gameplay footage and press hands-on impressions for DOOM: The Dark Ages would be released the following day. Enthusiasts are urged to stay tuned for the freshest updates and insights into this eagerly awaited title.
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 a recent merchandise unboxing video. Priced at $175 USD, this detailed replica is now available for pre-order. Inspired by the game's upcoming design, the helmet is part of an extensive merchandise launch ahead of the game's release. It is currently listed as 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, retaining the franchise's core elements while introducing innovative gameplay dynamics. The Dark Ages delves deeper into concepts from Doom Eternal, including the Wintherin dragons, which seem to have inspired the semi-mechanical dragon that players will control.
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 utilizing the game's expanded melee and parry mechanics. Martin hinted that a melee-only playthrough, while technically feasible, would be slightly out of bounds
for most players.
Stratton noted that such a run could be completed but would likely be a challenging and less enjoyable experience, akin to the infamous pistol-only Ultra Nightmare challenge 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 their PC Gamer interview, Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton shared insights into the conclusion of Doom: The Dark Ages. Contrary to fan theories, the story will not conclude with the Slayer being imprisoned in a coffin, as seen at the start of Doom 2016.
Martin clarified that ending with the Slayer's entombment would preclude further medieval-era stories. Instead, The Dark Ages is designed to be a part of a larger Chronicles of the Slayer
saga, with an ending that leaves the door open for 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
⚫︎ Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton, in an interview for PC Gamer's upcoming issue 408 (396 in the U.S.), delved into the weapon lineup of Doom: The Dark Ages. Martin disclosed that, apart from the shotguns, most of the game's arsenal is brand new, with even the plasma weapon undergoing 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 the Developer Direct 2025 event, which went live on January 23. This showcase featured updates from id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive, and was streamed on platforms like 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 involvement in the upcoming Developer Direct event, set for January 23, 2025. The event will include updates from various studios, including those working on DOOM, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. It will be live-streamed 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 introduced during the Xbox Games Showcase, promising a daring reimagining of the iconic shooter series. The trailer showcased dragon riding, mech battles, and a darker, more intense visual style, while introducing significant gameplay innovations, including a shield and flail for melee combat.
Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages Could Be the Series’ Boldest Reinvention Yet (IGN)
