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DOOM: The Dark Ages News
2025
April 1
⚫︎ In a recent interview with GamesRadar+, Hugo Martin, director of the Doom series, shared that the decision to exclude multiplayer from Doom Eternal was made early in development. The team prioritized refining the campaign, citing scope and resource allocation as key factors.
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
⚫︎ On March 30, DOOM’s official X (formerly Twitter) account announced that new gameplay footage and press hands-on impressions for DOOM: The Dark Ages would be released the following day, March 31. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for the latest updates and exclusive insights into the upcoming title.
Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages: keep an eye here tomorrow for press hands-on impressions and new gameplay (Official Bethesda Twitter Page)
March 15
⚫︎ Bethesda unveiled the DOOM: The Dark Ages Wearable Helmet Replica in its latest merchandise unboxing video. Priced at $175 USD, the replica is available for pre-order and showcases a highly detailed design inspired by the game. As part of a larger merchandise rollout ahead of the game's release, the helmet is currently listed as in stock, with shipping to begin 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 Twitter Page)
March 12
⚫︎ Doom: The Dark Ages remains on schedule for its May 15 release, delivering a medieval-themed prequel to the modern Doom saga. Following the legacy of Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal, this new entry retains the franchise's signature fast-paced action while introducing fresh gameplay mechanics. The game expands on underutilized elements from Doom Eternal, including the Wintherin dragons, which appear in a semi-mechanical form that players can pilot during gameplay.
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 how the game's enhanced melee and parry systems could support unique challenge runs. Martin noted that while a full melee-only playthrough would be “slightly out of bounds,” it remains technically possible for determined players.
Stratton added that although such a run might be achievable, it would likely result in a frustrating and clunky experience—comparable to the infamous pistol-only Ultra Nightmare mode 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)
⚫︎ During another segment of the PC Gamer interview, developers Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton revealed details about the game's ending. Contrary to expectations, the story will not conclude with the Slayer being sealed inside a coffin—a scene shown at the start of Doom 2016.
Martin explained that ending with the Slayer’s entombment would close the door on future medieval-era stories. Since The Dark Ages is designed as part of a broader Chronicles of the Slayer saga, the ending will leave room for potential 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 director Hugo Martin and producer Marty Stratton provided insight into the game's weapon selection. Martin confirmed that aside from shotguns, most of the arsenal is entirely new or significantly redesigned—including the plasma weapon. He emphasized that this approach was intentional, offering players a fresh set of 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 today, January 23. This showcase featured updates from studios like id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event was streamed live on platforms such as Twitch and YouTube, 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 Twitter)
January 9
⚫︎ Bethesda officially confirmed its participation in the upcoming Developer Direct event, scheduled for January 23, 2025. The presentation included updates from multiple studios, covering titles related to DOOM, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event was streamed live at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. GMT across YouTube and other major platforms.
Read more: id Software Confirms Participation in the January 2025 Xbox Developers Direct (Official Bethesda Twitter)
2024
June 11
⚫︎ Doom: The Dark Ages made its official debut during the Xbox Games Showcase, promising a bold reimagining of the legendary shooter franchise. The reveal trailer showcased dragon-riding sequences, intense mech battles, and a darker, heavier visual style. The game also introduces significant gameplay innovations, including a shield and flail system for melee combat.
Read more: Doom: The Dark Ages Could Be the Series’ Boldest Reinvention Yet (IGN)
