DOOM: The Dark Ages - Latest Updates

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DOOM: The Dark Ages News

2025

April 1

⚫︎ In an interview with GamesRadar+, Hugo Martin, the director of the Doom series, shared insights into the decision to exclude multiplayer from Doom Eternal. Martin explained that the focus was shifted early in development to enhance the campaign, citing the game's 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

⚫︎ The official X account (formerly Twitter) for DOOM announced that new gameplay footage and press hands-on impressions for DOOM: The Dark Ages would be released on March 31. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for the latest updates and insights on 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, this detailed replica is available for pre-order and is part of a broader merchandise rollout ahead of the game's release. The helmet is currently in stock, with shipping scheduled 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 track for its May 15 release date, promising a medieval-inspired prequel to the modern Doom saga. The game builds on the successes of Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal, maintaining core franchise elements while introducing new gameplay dynamics. The Dark Ages will expand on underexplored concepts from Doom Eternal, such as the Wintherin dragons, which have inspired the semi-mechanical dragon that 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 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 expanded melee and parry mechanics. Martin suggested that a melee-only playthrough, while possible, would be slightly out of bounds for dedicated players. Stratton added that such a run could result in a janky and less enjoyable experience, similar 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, Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton revealed new details about the game's conclusion. Contrary to expectations, the story will not end with the Slayer being locked in a coffin, as depicted at the beginning of Doom 2016. Martin explained that this would close off future medieval-era stories, noting that The Dark Ages is intended to be part of a broader Chronicles of the Slayer saga. The ending will instead leave room 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

⚫︎ In an interview for PC Gamer's upcoming issue 408 (396 in the U.S.), Doom: The Dark Ages game director Hugo Martin and producer Marty Stratton discussed the game's weapon lineup. Martin revealed that aside from the shotguns, most of the arsenal in The Dark Ages is entirely new, with even the plasma weapon being significantly redesigned. This decision was made to provide players with 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 that the Developer Direct 2025 event is live today, January 23. The showcase, featuring updates from studios such as id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive, was streamed on platforms including Twitch and YouTube. The event began 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 confirmed its participation in the upcoming Developer Direct event, scheduled for January 23, 2025. The showcase will feature updates from multiple studios, including DOOM, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event will 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 was officially unveiled during the Xbox Games Showcase, promising a bold reimagining of the iconic shooter series. The trailer revealed dragon riding, mech battles, and a darker, heavier visual style, while introducing significant gameplay changes—including a shield and flail for melee combat.

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