MICROSOFT DEVELOPER DIRECT: DOOM GETS A DATE, NINJA GAIDEN RETURNS

Ever wondered what happens when Microsoft decides to drop release dates like a demon drops health pickups? The latest Developer Direct answered that question with a flurry of dates and details for some of 2025's most anticipated titles.

DOOM: THE DARK AGES EMERGES FROM THE SHADOWS

The medieval spin on id Software's demon-slaying simulator finally has a release date, and it's closer than a Cacodemon's bad breath. Mark May 15th on your calendars, because that's when we'll all be swinging Shield Saws and riding robot dragons. The presentation gave us a deeper look at the game's slower, weightier combat system and those "300"-inspired Glory Kills that have been teased for months.

NINJA GAIDEN: THE UNEXPECTED DOUBLE SLASH

Talk about a one-two punch - not only did we get confirmation that Ninja Gaiden 4 is slicing its way to consoles in Fall 2025, but Koei Tecmo shadow-dropped Ninja Gaiden 2 Black right during the show. The latter is a complete Unreal Engine 5 remake of the 2008 classic, available right now for anyone who needs their ninja fix while waiting for the new installment.

DATES AND DETAILS

• South of Midnight: April 8th (Xbox/PC exclusive)

• Clair Obscur: Expedition 33: April 24th

• DOOM: The Dark Ages: May 15th

• Ninja Gaiden 4: Fall 2025

• Ninja Gaiden 2 Black: Available now

THE BOTTOM LINE

Microsoft's Developer Direct delivered exactly what fans have been waiting for - concrete release dates for their most anticipated titles. The surprise Ninja Gaiden announcements stole the show, while DOOM's May release date gives us all something gloriously violent to look forward to this spring.