Here’s a fun tidbit for fans of the iconic series: Did you know that the Slayer from Doom: The Dark Ages takes a page from Batman’s legendary tale in Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight comics? Just yesterday, id Software announced that on May 15, 2025, players can start unlocking the Doom: The Dark Ages achievements as the game makes its debut on Game Pass.
During a recent peek into Doom: The Dark Ages, I attended an engaging Q&A with id Software, where the creative team spilled some intriguing details about the game. Hugo Martin, the creative director, shared that this medieval-themed Doom Slayer drew heavy inspiration from Frank Miller’s Dark Knight. Interestingly, the seeds for this narrative twist were planted back when the team was working on Doom (2016).
It seems that Miller’s influence has been pivotal in shaping this iteration of Doom. We’re introduced to a Slayer more robust and brutal than ever before. It’s fascinating to note that amidst Microsoft’s showdown with the FTC over its acquisition of Activision Blizzard, court documents hinted at a game dubbed Doom: Year One in development at Bethesda.
Hugo Martin clarified that the codename was a nod to the Batman: Year One comic, a personal favorite of his and Marty Stratton since 2016. The Dark Knight series overall was a huge source of inspiration. “My all-time favorite comic has to be Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight,” Martin stated. “Batman is portrayed as this massive, powerful figure; he’s like a tank. His entire arsenal reflects his strength. I thought a Slayer like that—tanker and stronger—would be amazing to create.”
Martin elaborated that there wasn’t much left to explore in terms of speed and acrobatics after Doom Eternal. “We’re incredibly proud of Doom Eternal and its expansions. They’re standalone successes, as was Doom (2016). But crafting a new slayer power experience seemed exciting, and we think players will really appreciate it. The new Slayer is a force to reckon with. You feel his presence—every step he takes is heavy, every move feels monumental.”
The idea of exploring a prequel has always been enticing for the team. Martin explained that this concept was subtly set up in Doom (2016) through the Slayer’s Testaments and various pieces of lore. “Visionaries like George Lucas taught us how to explore a hero’s history effectively back in the 80s,” Martin noted. “If done right and the fans are keen, diving deeper into backstories can enrich sequels.”
“The Slayer’s origin was something we began sketching out from the start with the Slayer’s Testaments and his legend. It was like crossing our fingers thinking, ‘We hope we get to share this saga someday.'”
Are you excited to tackle demons as a Slayer bearing the Dark Knight’s fierce inspiration in this upcoming Xbox first-person spectacle? Share your thoughts below!
