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DOOM: The Dark Ages News

2025

April 1

⚫︎ In an interview with GamesRadar+, Hugo Martin, the visionary director behind the Doom series, shared that the decision to forgo multiplayer in Doom Eternal was made early on. The focus was squarely on crafting an exceptional single-player campaign, a choice influenced by the game's expansive scope and the team's resources.

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 buzzed with excitement on March 30, teasing fans with the promise of new gameplay footage and hands-on impressions set to drop on March 31. Stay tuned for the freshest insights into DOOM: The Dark Ages!

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 pulled back the curtain on the DOOM: The Dark Ages Wearable Helmet Replica in their latest merchandise unboxing video. Priced at $175 USD, this meticulously crafted replica is up for pre-order, echoing the game's dark aesthetic. It's part of a larger merchandise launch and is currently available, with shipping slated once all items 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 steadfastly approaching its May 15 release, heralding a medieval-inspired prequel to the modern Doom saga. This title builds on the legacy of Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal, introducing fresh gameplay mechanics while spotlighting elements like the Wintherin dragons, which have inspired the semi-mechanical dragon that players will command.

Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages May Level Up One of Eternal's Best Additions (Game Rant)

March 10

⚫︎ In an exclusive for PC Gamer's upcoming issue 408 (396 in the U.S.), DOOM: The Dark Ages director Hugo Martin and producer Marty Stratton delved into the game's innovative melee and parry mechanics, hinting at the possibility of a melee-only challenge run. Martin playfully remarked that such a run would be slightly out of bounds, yet achievable for the most dedicated players.

Stratton chimed in, suggesting that while it's technically possible, it might result in a clunky experience, akin to the infamous pistol-only Ultra Nightmare challenge from 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)

⚫︎ The same PC Gamer interview revealed more about the game's narrative arc. Contrary to fan theories, DOOM: The Dark Ages won't conclude with the Slayer being sealed in a coffin, a plot point from the start of Doom 2016. Hugo Martin clarified that such an ending would preclude further medieval stories, as The Dark Ages is meant to be a chapter in the expansive Chronicles of the Slayer saga. Instead, the game's ending will pave the way 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

⚫︎ In another PC Gamer feature, Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton discussed the weaponry of DOOM: The Dark Ages. Martin noted that aside from the shotguns, the arsenal is entirely new or significantly altered, including a revamped plasma weapon. This approach aims to equip players with novel 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 went live on January 23, spotlighting updates from id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event streamed across Twitch, YouTube, and other platforms, starting 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 their involvement in the January 23, 2025, Developer Direct event, which promised updates from DOOM and other studios. The showcase was set to stream 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 dramatically unveiled at the Xbox Games Showcase, offering fans a bold new chapter in the iconic shooter series. The trailer showcased dragon riding, mech battles, and a darker, more intense visual style, alongside gameplay innovations such as a shield and flail for melee combat.

Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages Could Be the Series’ Boldest Reinvention Yet (IGN)