DOOM: The Dark Ages - Latest Updates

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DOOM: The Dark Ages News

2025

April 1

⚫︎ In an insightful interview with GamesRadar+, Hugo Martin, the director behind the Doom series, disclosed that the decision to omit multiplayer from Doom Eternal was made early on. The focus shifted entirely to enhancing the campaign, with Martin pointing to the game's scope and resource allocation as key factors in this choice.

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 that fans should keep an eye out for new gameplay footage and press hands-on impressions set to be released on March 31. This upcoming reveal will give fans a closer look at what to expect from the much-anticipated 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 showcased the DOOM: The Dark Ages Wearable Helmet Replica in their latest merchandise unboxing video. Priced at $175 USD, this detailed replica is now available for pre-order. It's a part of a wider merchandise release in anticipation of the game's launch and 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. It builds upon the success of Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal, preserving the franchise's core elements while introducing fresh gameplay dynamics. The game delves deeper into concepts from Doom Eternal, such as the Wintherin dragons, which have inspired the semi-mechanical dragon players will pilot.

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

March 10

⚫︎ In an interview featured in 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 game's expanded melee and parry mechanics. Martin hinted that a melee-only playthrough would be challenging but feasible for dedicated players. Stratton compared the potential experience to the notorious pistol-only Ultra Nightmare challenge in Doom 2016, suggesting it might not be the most enjoyable route.

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 details about the game's ending. Contrary to what some might expect, the story won't conclude with the Slayer being locked in a coffin as seen at the start of Doom 2016. Martin explained that such an ending would limit future medieval-era narratives, emphasizing that The Dark Ages is part of a larger "Chronicles of the Slayer" saga, with an ending that opens doors 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 a revealing interview for PC Gamer's upcoming issue 408 (396 in the U.S.), Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton shared insights into the game's weapon lineup. Martin noted that, except for the shotguns, most of the arsenal in The Dark Ages is brand new or significantly transformed, including a revamped plasma weapon. This intentional design choice aims to offer players new 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, showcasing updates from studios including id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event streamed at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. GMT on platforms like Twitch and YouTube.

Read more: id Software Reveals DOOM: The Dark Ages Release Date During the Xbox Developer Direct (Official Bethesda X)

January 9

⚫︎ Bethesda confirmed its participation in the upcoming Developer Direct event on January 23, 2025. The showcase will feature updates from multiple studios, including DOOM, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive, streaming live at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. GMT across 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, along with significant gameplay changes such as the introduction of a shield and flail for melee combat.

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