Doom: The Dark Ages - Everything You Need To Know

Doom: The Dark Ages is the latest flagship game of the DOOM franchise, created by id Software and released by Bethesda Softworks. Revealed on June 9, 2024, during the Xbox Games Showcase 2024, the game is a prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal. The game takes place in a world based on the medieval era, in a dark gothic world with new gameplay features but maintaining the series' hallmark of fast action.

Game Overview

  • Title: Doom: The Dark Ages
  • Developer: id Software
  • Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
  • Genre: First-Person Shooter (FPS)
  • Engine: Expected to use id Tech 8
  • Release Date: Expected in 2025
  • Platforms:
    • ​Xbox Series X|S
    • PlayStation 5
    • PC
    • Available Day 1 on Xbox Game Pass

Story & Setting

Doom: The Dark Ages delves into the DOOM Slayer's past as a mythical warrior fighting against demons in a medieval-themed world. As opposed to other sci-fi-themed games, this title brings dark fantasy elements like castles, knights, and demon energy-powered ancient technology into the mix.

As a prequel to DOOM (2016), the game can delve into the history of the Slayer, the Night Sentinels, and the war against Hell before DOOM Eternal.

Gameplay & Features

The game maintains DOOM's violent, bloody FPS fighting but with medieval-themed mechanics.

New Weapons & Combat Mechanics

  • Shield & Sword Fighting
    • ​The Slayer uses a chainsaw shield as defense and offense.
    • A massive sword, such as the Crucible Blade, could be the turning point.
  • New Brutal Executions
    • ​Expect glory kills with medieval-style execution moves.
  • Demonic War Machines
    • ​They are able to purchase siege weapons and mechanical mounts (presumably dragon-type beasts).
  • Increased Enemy Roster
    • ​Classic DOOM demons return with a medieval appearance.
    • New nightmare creatures from dark fantasy.

Enhanced Movement

  • Grappling Hook Mechanics
    • Guess it's a variant of the Meathook from DOOM Eternal.
  • Greater Verticality in Battle
    • ​Climbing, jumping over destroyed castles, and traversing hellish landscapes.

Defensive Strategy

  • Shield-Based Fighting
    • Blocking, parrying, and counterattack can be more complicated.
  • Extended Tactical Combat
    • ​A mix of close and distant attacks instead of relying on guns only.

Graphics & Engine

  • Expected to be utilizing id Tech 8, an upgrade over id Tech 7.
  • Features:
    • ​Impressive medieval landscapes with destructible objects.
    • Ray-traced lighting for more detailed shadows and reflections.
    • Improved load times and performance optimization for upcoming consoles.

Music & Sound

  • Mick Gordon is not returning, but the soundtrack will be orchestral and heavy metal to fit the dark medieval environment.
  • Search for dense sound design, like demonic growls, clashing armor, and high-speed weapon impacts.

What to Expect

  • A Dark, Brutal Prequel
    • ​Focus on the Slayer’s origins and the early war against Hell.
  • Melee Combat & New Arsenal
    • ​Swords, shields, and medieval weaponry alongside classic DOOM firepower.
  • A Bigger, More Expansive World
    • ​Castles, dungeons, and massive battlefields overrun by demonic forces.

Final Thoughts

Doom: The Dark Ages is going to be a bold series expansion, mashing up DOOM's frenetic action with dark fantasy during the medieval age. If DOOM Eternal, bloody FPS action, and gothic settings appeal to you, this game is on your 2025 wishlist.