At the Xbox Developer Direct, ID Software shared more details about Doom: The Dark Ages — an ambitious prequel to the famous Doom franchise. Developers revealed insights about the upcoming part of the series regarding gameplay, game mechanics, and the foundation of the storyline.

The game, inspired by the works of Frank Miller (Year One, The Dark Knight Returns, 300), reimagines the origin story of the Doom Slayer in a medieval sci-fi world. Game director Hugo Martin describes the combat system as a shift from the fast-paced dynamics of Doom Eternal to the heavy yet relentless force of an "iron tank".

Players will explore vast battlefields, wield brutal medieval-themed weapons, and destroy waves of demons in expansive "sandboxes."

Innovative Gameplay

Gameplay focuses on tactical and grounded combat. Doom Slayer is equipped with new melee weapons, including an iron mace and a buzzsaw shield — a multifunctional tool for blocking, parrying, throwing, and decapitating demons.

Players can also use destructive firearms, such as the Skull Crusher, which turns enemy skulls into deadly projectiles. The Glory Kills mechanic, characteristic of the series, has been enhanced for more fluidity and variety, ensuring seamless combat against multiple enemies.

Id Software also introduced massive vehicles, showcasing a 30-story combat mech Atlan and a cybernetic dragon in the video review. Both have unique upgrades and abilities to aid in aerial battles and confrontations with large bosses or crowds of enemies.

Simplified Yet Enhanced Gameplay and Difficulty System

Taking into account feedback on Doom Eternal, developers simplified the controls while maintaining their depth. Weapon and ability usage is now more intuitive, allowing newcomers to quickly master the system while remaining engaging for veteran players.

Difficulty sliders provide fine-tuning of parameters such as game speed, enemy aggression, and parry windows, allowing the game to adapt to both casual and hardcore players.

Game world

The events of The Dark Ages take place in a dark fantasy world with grim forests, giant fortresses, dangerous dungeons, and ancient battlefields. Levels are designed with less linearity, encouraging players to explore comprehensively.

The buzzsaw shield also serves as a mobility tool: it allows overcoming rifts, scaling walls, and discovering hidden treasures. With the largest game spaces in the series' history, the game promises a "Doom sandbox" experience.

Developers have discarded the idea of multiplayer in favor of a meticulously polished single-player experience. The Dark Ages will present a plot-rich campaign with cinematic cutscenes.

The storyline tells of times when Slayer was a weapon of gods and kings, facing ancient evil threatening humanity. New characters, allies, and villains will enhance the lore and tie events to Doom (2016) and Doom Eternal.

Doom: The Dark Ages Release Date

Previous rumors about the release date have been confirmed! Doom: The Dark Ages will be released on May 15, 2025  for PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox Series X, and will also be available on Game Pass.