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DOOM: The Dark Ages News

2025

April 1

⚫︎ In a recent interview with GamesRadar+, Hugo Martin, the director of the Doom series, shed light on why multiplayer was omitted from Doom Eternal. The decision was made early in the development process to focus exclusively on enhancing the campaign. Martin highlighted that the scope and resources of the project were better utilized in refining the single-player experience.

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 teased fans on March 30, announcing that fresh gameplay footage and press hands-on impressions for DOOM: The Dark Ages would be released the following day. Stay tuned for exciting updates and detailed insights into what's next for the franchise.

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 unveiled the DOOM: The Dark Ages Wearable Helmet Replica through their latest merchandise unboxing video. Priced at $175 USD, this meticulously crafted replica is now available for pre-order. It showcases detailed design elements inspired by the game and is part of an extensive merchandise lineup leading up to the game's release. The helmet is in stock and will ship 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-themed prequel to the iconic Doom series. Following the success of Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal, this installment promises to retain the series' core elements while introducing innovative gameplay dynamics. Notably, The Dark Ages delves deeper into the lore with the introduction of Wintherin dragons, leading to the exciting feature of piloting 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 upcoming issue of PC Gamer (Issue 408 in the UK, 396 in the US), Doom: The Dark Ages director Hugo Martin and producer Marty Stratton discussed the potential for challenge runs focusing on the game's expanded melee and parry mechanics. Martin hinted that a melee-only playthrough, while not officially supported, could be attempted by the most dedicated players. Stratton noted that such a run might result in a challenging and less polished experience, akin to the notorious 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)

⚫︎ In the same PC Gamer interview, Martin and Stratton revealed new details about the game's ending. Contrary to fan speculation, the story won't conclude with the Slayer being trapped in a coffin, a scene that kicks off Doom 2016. Martin explained that such an ending would limit future storytelling opportunities within the medieval setting. Instead, the ending of The Dark Ages is crafted to open doors for more prequels in the "Chronicles of the Slayer" saga.

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 segment from PC Gamer's upcoming issue, Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton discussed the weapon lineup for DOOM: The Dark Ages. Martin highlighted that, aside from the shotguns, the game's arsenal is largely new or significantly revamped. This deliberate design choice aims to give players fresh tools to master, with even the plasma weapon receiving a major overhaul.

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, showcasing updates from various studios, including id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event was streamed across multiple platforms, including 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 X)

January 9

⚫︎ Bethesda confirmed their participation in the January 23, 2025, Developer Direct event, promising updates from multiple studios, including DOOM, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The event will be streamed 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 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 aesthetic, alongside significant 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)