Hey, everyone! Hugo Martin here, Game Director for Doom: The Dark Ages, checking in from the id Software headquarters. We’re in the final stages of polishing up this new chapter in the franchise, and we’re bursting with excitement to share it with you. While we wait, we’ve put together some fresh gameplay footage. There’s plenty to dive into from the video, so let’s jump right in—I’m sure you’ve got a bunch of questions, so let me try to answer them for you…
### What’s the new combat loop in Dark Ages, and how does it differ from Eternal or Doom (2016)?
If we had to sum it up, it’s a fusion of both with an added medieval flair. Our goal is to deliver the intricate depth of Eternal’s gameplay while maintaining the straightforward controls of Doom (2016). In Eternal, executing every incredible move required a specific input. In Dark Ages, we’re introducing some kickass medieval actions with fewer buttons!
We’ve achieved this depth and simplicity by allowing weapons like the Shield-Saw to adapt based on what they hit. For instance, the shield ricochets off plasma walls, wrecks havoc among foes, sticks to flesh to stun big demons, or even shatters armor with an explosive effect—all with just one button push.
To explain it with an analogy: it’s like we’ve removed a couple of guitar strings, but added frets to keep the intricate mechanics intact, offering players fresh challenges to master. We’re sticking to tried-and-true FPS inputs for these actions, making the learning curve intuitive. The moves feel powerful and satisfying, giving you a strategic edge—entertaining and clever at the same time.
### What do the “rings” around enemies indicate?
Those yellow rings you’re spotting are falter indicators. “Falters” have been a strategic layer in both Eternal and 2016. Elite players figured out how to induce falters, stacking moves to immobilize tougher adversaries (which was our intention). In Dark Ages, it’s crucial that players clearly recognize when an enemy falters, encouraging them to explore its causes and use it to their advantage. While relying on falters isn’t necessary for success, on harder difficulties, leveraging them gives you a notable edge—and for Ultra Nightmare players, every advantage counts!
### More story in Doom?
Absolutely! Dark Ages revolves around three main components: combat, exploration, and story—each providing its own compelling reason to play. Doom fans aren’t just looking for any story; they’re looking for one that enhances the epic power fantasy and propels you to finish the campaign. With the narrative, we aim to create bigger villains, dazzling worlds, and formidable obstacles.
Here’s a quick story synopsis: As Dark Ages kicks off, our hero, the Slayer, is imprisoned, and the equilibrium between good and evil is slipping. He stands as an intimidating outsider among desperate people, his might controlled by the deities they worship, within a world besieged by age-old darkness. This game serves as a prequel in the Doom Universe timeline, marking the onset of the Slayer’s journey with the Sentinels. He steps in as an outsider, enhanced by the Sentinel gods, the Maykrs, now a formidable weapon in a medieval clash against hell’s forces.
### When does it come out?
Mark your calendars for May 15, 2025! We’re beyond thrilled for you to experience what we believe could be the ultimate Doom game. It packs a punch with intense combat, extensive exploration, and a gripping action-packed story fit for the Slayer legend. Plus, you’ll face off against the Atlan (the colossal Doom mech) and a mighty Dragon!
Thanks for tuning in—stay alert for more updates coming your way!
