When is DOOM The Dark Ages set?

Wondering when DOOM The Dark Ages is set in the series’ timeline? With both the original 90s games and the modern revival, not to speak of countless spin-offs, to keep in mind, making sense of where the DOOM slayer’s latest adventure falls chronologically can be a bit of a head-scratcher.

Throw in plenty of medieval references, flying dragons, Argent D’Nur, and it can be difficult to place the new game within the franchise and the DOOM slayer’s story. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about when DOOM The Dark Ages is set.

When does DOOM The Dark Ages take place?

Per the official description provided by id Software and Bethesda Softworks, DOOM The Dark Ages is a prequel to DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal. This positions it between the classic DOOM series of the 90s  – DOOM, DOOM 2, and DOOM 64 – and the modern reboot series – DOOM (2016) and DOOM Eternal.

Chronologically the main line games fall as follows in the DOOM timeline:

• DOOM
• DOOM II
• DOOM 64
• DOOM The Dark Ages
• DOOM (2016)
• DOOM Eternal

The Dark Ages title is somewhat of a misnomer as it doesn’t refer to a Middle Ages period in the DOOM slayer’s timeline but rather in that of the higher dimension realm of Argent D’Nur. The realm is embroiled in a bloody war with the forces of Hell who are intent on the extinction of humankind.

At the end of DOOM 64, the slayer opts to remain in Hell to act as a safeguard to ensure no demons ever pose a threat again. Fast forward to DOOM 2016’s opening and we see Hayden wake up the slayer to combat the demons overrunning the UAC facility on Mars.

The Dark Ages aims to fill in the gap between these two events and provide a narrative link by charting the slayer’s involvement in the Argenta and Sentinels’ stand against invading legions from Hell during the Unholy Crusades. The game will also presumably touch on how Hell succeeded in thwarting the slayer and sealing him away in a tomb before the events of DOOM (2016).

For more DOOM The Dark Ages help, check out our tips and tricks to rampage in style, all the trophies and achievements, and the best settings for buttery smooth FPS on PC.