The rumors were true. At the Xbox June Showcase event, id Software officially unveiled the next entry in the Doom franchise, titled Doom: The Dark Ages. Slated for a 2025 release, this upcoming game transports players to a dark fantasy realm, marking a significant departure from the traditional sci-fi settings of previous titles.
A Journey to the Past
Doom: The Dark Ages plunges the franchise into a medieval-inspired era. As the title suggests, this new installment takes players back in time, serving as a prequel to the 2016 reboot. The game promises to maintain the series’ trademark gore and intensity, but with a fresh twist—players will now battle demonic hordes in a fantasy realm filled with gods, kings, and monstrous beasts.
New Features and Gameplay Mechanics
Medieval Setting and Fantasy Elements
The medieval setting introduces new gameplay dynamics and environments. Players will navigate through dark, atmospheric landscapes, including ancient castles, sprawling dungeons, and eerie forests. The integration of fantasy elements will likely bring new types of enemies and challenges, enriching the Doom experience.
Epic Combat and Cinematic Storytelling
The game promises grounded, hard-hitting combat that fans of the series will appreciate. Players will don the iconic visor of the Slayer, utilizing both familiar and novel weapons and abilities to vanquish their foes. The inclusion of a colossal Atlan mech for battling titanic beasts adds a layer of epic, large-scale combat. Additionally, the Slayer’s new steed—a jet-fueled, cybernetic war dragon—offers unique aerial combat opportunities, blending medieval and futuristic aesthetics in a thrilling manner.
A Multi-Platform Release
In a move that aligns with Microsoft’s recent multi-platform strategy, Doom: The Dark Ages will be available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC. This decision underscores id Software’s commitment to making the franchise accessible to a broader audience. Xbox head Phil Spencer emphasized the importance of this inclusivity, highlighting that the Doom series has a rich history across multiple platforms and should continue to be enjoyed by all gamers.
The Legacy of Doom
A Brief Hiatus and a Grand Return
Since the release of Doom Eternal in 2020, id Software has focused on expanding the game with two DLC expansions, The Ancient Gods Part One and Part Two. Their subsequent project, Quake Champions, launched in 2022, was well-received but left fans eagerly anticipating the next Doom installment. Doom: The Dark Ages marks the studio’s return to its flagship series, bringing with it years of anticipation and high expectations.
From Rumors to Reality
Speculation about a new Doom game began with a leaked Microsoft court document in 2023, which referred to a project codenamed “Doom: Year Zero.” This was later substantiated by an “IDKFA” trademark filing and reports from various gaming insiders. The official announcement at the Xbox Showcase confirmed these rumors, revealing that Doom: The Dark Ages has been in development for at least four years.
Looking Ahead
Doom: The Dark Ages promises to be a bold and exciting new chapter in the storied Doom franchise. By merging medieval fantasy with the series’ iconic brutal combat and innovative gameplay, id Software is poised to deliver a fresh yet familiar experience for both longtime fans and new players. Get ready to embark on this epic, demonic journey through time.
Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive content as the release date approaches. For now, prepare yourselves for a Doom experience unlike any other.