"DOOM: The Dark Ages - Latest Updates"

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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, focusing their efforts on delivering a polished 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

⚫︎ On March 30, the official DOOM account on X (formerly Twitter) announced that new gameplay footage and hands-on impressions for DOOM: The Dark Ages would be released the following day. Fans are encouraged to follow official channels for the latest updates.

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 a recent merchandise unboxing video. Priced at $175 USD, the helmet is available for pre-order and features a highly detailed design inspired by the game. Part of a larger merchandise lineup, it is currently 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 Twitter Page)

March 12

⚫︎ DOOM: The Dark Ages remains set for a May 15 release, serving as a medieval prequel to the modern DOOM saga. Building on the legacy of DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, the game introduces new mechanics while revisiting underexplored ideas—like the Wintherin dragons. A semi-mechanical dragon, which players can pilot, is among the standout additions.

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 Issue 408 (U.S. Issue 396), DOOM: The Dark Ages director Hugo Martin and producer Marty Stratton discussed the expanded melee and parry systems. Martin noted that while a melee-only playthrough is technically possible, it would be slightly out of bounds and extremely challenging.

Stratton added that such a run would likely be frustrating and awkward—similar to the infamous 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, the developers shared insights into the game’s ending. Contrary to expectations, the story will not conclude with the Slayer being sealed in a coffin, as seen at the start of DOOM (2016).

Martin explained that ending with the Slayer’s imprisonment would close the door on future medieval-era stories. The game is designed as part of a larger Chronicles of the Slayer saga, leaving 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

⚫︎ During an interview with PC Gamer for its Issue 408 (U.S. Issue 396), Hugo Martin and Marty Stratton provided details on the game's weaponry. Martin revealed that aside from the shotguns, most weapons in The Dark Ages are either brand new or significantly redesigned—including the plasma rifle.

He emphasized that this was a deliberate choice to give players fresh tools and encourage mastery of new combat styles.

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 the Developer Direct 2025 event, which is now live as of today, January 23. Featuring updates from studios like id Software, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive, the event is streaming live on 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 confirmed its participation in the upcoming Developer Direct event, scheduled for January 23, 2025. The showcase will include updates from DOOM, Compulsion Games, and Sandfall Interactive. The stream will begin 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 official debut during the Xbox Games Showcase, showcasing a dramatic evolution of the iconic shooter franchise. The reveal trailer featured dragon riding, mech battles, and a darker, heavier aesthetic. The gameplay also introduced new mechanics, including a shield and flail for enhanced melee combat.

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