Bethesda’s iconic Doom franchise is headed for a dramatic shift, with multiple reports indicating the next mainline entry will be a medieval-inspired prequel titled Doom: The Dark Ages. The unveiling is expected to take place at Xbox’s upcoming games showcase on June 9th.
According to insider reports from Insider Gaming and podcaster Nate The Hate, Doom: The Dark Ages has been in development for at least four years under the codename “Year Zero.” Details are scarce, but the game is rumored to explore the origins of the legendary Doomslayer/Doomguy, taking players to a world steeped in medieval aesthetics and lore.
This bold new direction represents a stark departure from the modern and futuristic sci-fi settings that have defined the series since its genre-defining 1993 debut. Bethesda seems intent on reinvigorating Doom by delving into its mythological roots, perhaps offering a fresh perspective on the franchise’s central conflict between hellish demon hordes and the indomitable marine sworn to destroy them.
While story specifics are unknown, such a prequel premise could introduce intriguing new gameplay mechanics and environments to the classically fast-paced, hyper-violent Doom formula. One can easily envision brutal medieval weaponry and architecture recontextualized through the lens of Doom’s trademark over-the-top, high-octane action.
The burning question remains: Which platforms will this bold new chapter launch on? 2020’s Doom Eternal released across PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch platforms. However, Microsoft’s $7.5 billion acquisition of Bethesda parent company ZeniMax Media in 2021 has cast uncertainty over future releases.
To expand upon the report with some additional information:
DOOM: The Dark Ages will be announced at the Xbox Games Showcase next month and will be revealed as a multiplatform release — Yes; it's coming to PlayStation 5. https://t.co/7l0Zxb4vcN
— NateTheHate2 (@NateTheHate2) May 24, 2024
Recent Xbox-published titles like Redfall and Starfield have been designated as Xbox/PC exclusives, at least for now. But there are also indications Microsoft could adopt a more open stance, with plans reported in February to bring some first-party games to PlayStation and Switch down the line.
While Xbox and PC availability seems assured, the latest insider reports from Nate The Hate suggest Doom: The Dark Ages will indeed make its way to the PlayStation 5 as well, continuing Bethesda’s legacy of multiplatform support for its biggest franchises post-acquisition. Of course, it will likely also benefit from Xbox/PC Game Pass inclusion at launch.
As a seminal pillar of the first-person shooter genre, Doom’s radical new creative direction is sure to turn heads and reignite discussions around the state of Microsoft’s evolving platform strategy. Fans won’t have to wait much longer, with Doom: The Dark Ages set to break its silence at the impending Xbox Games Showcase in just a few weeks.
