The Dark Ages Arrives on PS5 May 15th – New Gameplay Details Unveiled by id Software on PlayStation.Blog

Hey everyone! Hugo Martin here, the Game Director at id Software, dropping in with some exciting news from the world of Doom: The Dark Ages. We’re deep in the grind, fine-tuning this upcoming addition to the series, and trust me, it’s almost locked and loaded for you to dive into. To keep your appetite whet, we’ve whipped up a fresh gameplay video. There’s a lot to unpack, and I’m sure you’ve got questions. Let’s dive into the details…

What Makes the Combat Loop in Dark Ages Unique Compared to Eternal or Doom (2016)?

Imagine combining the best of both worlds: We’ve infused the depth of Eternal’s combat loop with the streamlined control feel of Doom (2016), but with a distinct medieval flavor. In Eternal, each action came with its own input, leading to some epic moves. In Dark Ages, you get to perform equally epic medieval actions, yet with fewer buttons to manage!

We’ve designed items like the Shield-Saw to alter their behavior depending on what they hit. It’s all about context: your shield can ricochet off plasma shields to hit multiple foes, lodge into flesh to stun larger demons, or blast armor apart with an AOE explosion—all through a single button! It’s like playing a guitar with fewer strings but more frets—preserving the depth while introducing new skills to master. We’re sticking to familiar FPS controls, making it easy to pick up, but there’s complexity for those who crave it. Fun and intuitive on the surface, yet tactical beneath.

What’s With Those Rings Around Enemies?

Spotting yellow rings? Those are falter indicators. In Eternal and 2016, players used falters to their advantage, stacking attacks to stun enemies. It’s vital to clearly show when an enemy falters in Dark Ages, so more players can explore and leverage this mechanic. While not necessary for victory, it gives you an edge on tougher difficulties. If you’re taking on Ultra Nightmare, every bit helps!

Is There More Story in Doom?

Absolutely! Dark Ages centers around combat, exploration, and story—three compelling reasons to play. Sure, Doom players may not crave a story, but they want one that fuels the power fantasy and adds momentum to the campaign. We’re crafting narratives that amplify the adversaries, uncover vast worlds, and present monumental obstacles.

Here’s the scoop: As the game begins, the Slayer is imprisoned, and darkness looms. Our hero, an outsider shunned by those he protects, wields power granted by divine forces in a realm besieged by an ancient evil. This prequel kickstarts the Slayer’s saga with the Sentinels, where he transforms into a mighty weapon in a medieval clash against hell’s forces.

When’s the Release?

Mark your calendars for May 15, 2025! We’re beyond excited for you to experience what we hope will be the most epic Doom game yet. With an array of thrilling combat, exploration, and a gripping story, it’s a homage to the Slayer’s legacy. Plus, you’ll even battle massive foes like the Atlan mech and a dragon! Keep an eye out for more updates on this adventure. Thanks for tuning in!