A new exhibition opened today at the Royal Armouries in Leeds, bringing together medieval history and modern gaming in a striking new way. Welcome to the Dark Ages, which runs until Friday 16th May, invites visitors to explore the world of DOOM: The Dark Ages, the latest entry in the iconic DOOM franchise.
At the centre of the exhibition is the Slayeux Tapestry, an 11-metre, hand-stitched display inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry. Created by French illustrator Simon De Thuillières, the tapestry reimagines scenes from the upcoming game through the lens of medieval design. “It was a huge honour to reimagine the brutal saga of the DOOM Slayer through this medieval lens,” said De Thuillières. “Transforming the Slayer’s epic battles into a tapestry steeped in medieval style was both a challenge and a thrill.”
Launched this morning with a special appearance by Olivier Richters, also known as The Dutch Giant, the exhibition made an immediate impact. Richters, dressed in full DOOM Slayer armour, cut the ribbon to officially open the event.
The exhibition features a range of displays that combine real-world medieval weaponry with elements from DOOM: The Dark Ages.
“This collaboration is a thrilling fusion of art, history and video game culture,” said Steve Merrett, Northern European Marketing and Communications Director for Bethesda. “With Welcome to the Dark Ages, we wanted to give fans a chance to step into the world of DOOM: The Dark Ages and see how deeply it draws from real-world medieval history.”
Florence Symington, Director of Brand and Audiences at the Royal Armouries, added, “We’re absolutely delighted to be partnering with Bethesda and the DOOM team. This exhibition offers a rare and exciting opportunity to engage new audiences with the heritage, artistry and history of arms and armour.”
Welcome to the Dark Ages is free to all visitors to the Royal Armouries from today, Friday 9 May, until Friday 16 May. More information is available at royalarmouries.org.
