DOOM: The Dark Ages - Latest Updates

Dive into the latest updates and developments surrounding DOOM: The Dark Ages!

← Return to DOOM: The Dark Ages main article

DOOM: The Dark Ages News

2025

April 1

⚫︎ In an insightful interview with GamesRadar+, Hugo Martin, the visionary director behind the Doom series, disclosed that the decision to omit multiplayer from Doom Eternal was made early in the development process. The team's focus shifted entirely to crafting a refined single-player campaign. Martin explained that this choice was driven by the game's expansive scope and the need to allocate resources effectively, stating, "It would definitely come at the expense of the campaign."

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

⚫︎ Excitement builds as DOOM's official X (formerly Twitter) account announced on March 30 that fans can look forward to new gameplay footage and hands-on impressions for DOOM: The Dark Ages the following day. Stay tuned for a deeper dive into the game's thrilling mechanics and world.

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 thrilled fans with the reveal of the DOOM: The Dark Ages Wearable Helmet Replica in their latest merchandise unboxing video. Priced at $175 USD, this meticulously crafted replica is now available for pre-order. Its detailed design draws inspiration directly from the game, and it's part of an extensive merchandise lineup ahead of the game's launch. It's 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 Twitter Page)

March 12

⚫︎ DOOM: The Dark Ages is steadfastly on course for its May 15 release, promising a medieval-inspired prequel that enriches the modern Doom saga. The game builds on the beloved elements of Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal, introducing fresh gameplay dynamics. Notably, The Dark Ages will delve deeper into the lore of the Wintherin dragons, offering players the chance to pilot a semi-mechanical dragon.

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

March 10

⚫︎ In an exclusive 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 game's innovative melee and parry mechanics. Martin hinted that while a melee-only playthrough would be "slightly out of bounds," it's still within the realm of possibility for dedicated players. Stratton cautioned, however, that such a run might result in a less polished and more challenging experience, akin to the 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 the same PC Gamer interview, Martin and Stratton shed light on the game's narrative closure. They clarified that DOOM: The Dark Ages will not conclude with the Slayer being confined to a coffin, as seen at the start of Doom 2016. Martin emphasized that such an ending would limit future medieval-era stories, and The Dark Ages is meant to be a part of a larger "Chronicles of the Slayer" saga. The game's ending will be designed to pave the way 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

⚫︎ Also in PC Gamer's upcoming issue 408 (396 in the U.S.), Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton delved into the weapon lineup for DOOM: The Dark Ages. Martin revealed that aside from the shotguns, the game's arsenal is predominantly new. Even the plasma weapon has undergone a significant redesign. This deliberate choice aims to equip players with novel tools to master, enhancing the overall gameplay experience.

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's Developer Direct 2025 event went live on January 23, showcasing updates from various studios, including id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event, streamed on platforms like Twitch and YouTube, started at 10 a.m. PT / 1 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. GMT, providing fans with the latest on DOOM: The Dark Ages.

Read more: id Software Reveals DOOM: The Dark Age’s Release Date During the Xbox Developer Direct (Official Bethesda Twitter)

January 9

⚫︎ Bethesda confirmed its participation in the January 23, 2025, Developer Direct event, promising updates from studios like id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event is scheduled to stream 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 Twitter)

2024

June 11

⚫︎ DOOM: The Dark Ages made its grand debut at the Xbox Games Showcase, heralding a bold reimagining of the legendary shooter series. The trailer showcased thrilling dragon riding, intense mech battles, and a darker, more intense visual style. Significant gameplay changes, including the introduction of a shield and flail for melee combat, were also highlighted.

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