DOOM: The Dark Ages – Release Date, Gameplay Details, and Everything We Know

TLDR:

Release Date: May 15, 2025 (May 13 for Premium Edition)
Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PS5, PC (Day one on Game Pass)
Single-player only campaign with three core pillars: Combat, Exploration, and Story
New medieval arsenal including Shield Saw, Flail, and Skull-crushing weapons
Pilot massive Atlan mechs and cybernetic dragons
Three editions available: Standard ($69.99), Premium ($99.99), and Collector’s ($199.99)

A New Era of DOOM

The gates of Hell are opening once again, but this time, we’re stepping back in time. DOOM: The Dark Ages marks a bold new direction for the franchise, taking players back to the origins of the DOOM Slayer’s legendary journey. As a direct prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal, this new chapter transforms the series’ signature fast-paced combat into something more grounded and tactical, while still maintaining the brutal intensity that fans have come to expect.

Combat Evolution: From Fighter Jet to Iron Tank

“In DOOM Eternal, you felt like a fighter jet,” explains Game Director Hugo Martin. “But in The Dark Ages, you’re an iron tank.” This fundamental shift in combat philosophy moves away from the “jump and shoot” mechanics of recent titles, instead emphasizing a “stand and fight” approach that makes every encounter feel more deliberate and impactful.

Medieval Arsenal Highlights

The game introduces a diverse array of medieval weaponry, each designed to complement the new combat philosophy:

Shield Saw: This versatile weapon serves as both defense and offense, capable of blocking incoming attacks and being thrown like a deadly frisbee. Players can also use it for environmental traversal, adding a strategic layer to exploration.
Spiked Flail: A devastating melee weapon that excels in close-quarter combat, featuring various combo possibilities and area-of-effect damage potential.
Electric Gauntlet: Perfect for crowd control, this close-range weapon can stun and paralyze enemies, creating openings for devastating follow-up attacks.
Skull Crusher: Perhaps the most grotesque addition to the arsenal, this unique weapon converts demon skulls into high-velocity shrapnel, embodying DOOM’s signature blend of medieval fantasy and sci-fi horror.

The Slayer’s signature Super Shotgun also returns, ensuring that classic DOOM combat feels right at home in this medieval setting.

Epic Scale Combat: Mechs and Dragons

The Dark Ages introduces two game-changing additions that elevate combat to unprecedented scales:

The Atlan War Machine

For the first time in DOOM history, players will command the legendary Atlan, a towering 30-story war machine. These segments deliver spectacular kaiju-style battles against building-sized demons, featuring:

Unique combat mechanics specific to mech warfare
Progressive upgrade system
Strategic weak point targeting
Environmental destruction capabilities

Cybernetic Dragon Combat

Complementing the ground-based Atlan battles, players can take to the skies on a cybernetically enhanced dragon. This fearsome mount combines ancient and modern weaponry:

Fire-breathing capabilities
Mounted gatling guns
Jet-powered flight systems
Customizable upgrade paths

A World Worth Exploring

The Dark Ages features the largest and most intricate environments ever created for a DOOM game. The development team has crafted a rich, interconnected world that rewards exploration and player choice. Ancient catacombs house otherworldly technology, fortress walls pulse with hellish energy, and every location tells a story through careful environmental design.

Key Exploration Features:

Non-linear level design with multiple paths
Optional dungeons and secret areas
Reward-based exploration system
Shield Saw traversal mechanics
Hidden upgrades and collectibles

The Origin Story

The narrative places players at a crucial moment in the DOOM universe, with the Slayer beginning his journey as an imprisoned outsider in a world under siege. Blessed with power by the mysterious Maykr gods, he serves as the last hope for the Kingdom of the Night Sentinels against an ancient evil. This prequel setting allows id Software to explore the origins of the Slayer’s legendary status while directly connecting to the events of DOOM (2016).

Editions and Availability

When The Dark Ages launches on May 15, 2025, players can choose from three comprehensive editions:

Standard Edition ($69.99) * Base game * Pre-order bonus: Void Doom Slayer Skin

Premium Edition ($99.99) * Two days early access (May 13) * Three “Divinity” skins * Campaign DLC * Digital artbook and soundtrack

Collector’s Bundle ($199.99) * All Premium Edition content * 12-inch Doom Slayer statue * Key card replica in premium steelbook case * Exclusive cosmetic items

Development Focus and Technical Requirements

In a significant departure from recent entries, id Software has chosen to focus entirely on single-player content. This focused approach has allowed the team to create their most ambitious campaign yet, featuring deeper narrative elements, more elaborate set pieces, and refined combat mechanics.

Recommended PC Specifications:

OS: Windows 10/11 64-bit
CPU: Current generation processor
GPU: High-end graphics card
RAM: 16GB minimum
Storage: SSD recommended

Full system requirements will be announced closer to launch