The collaboration between publisher Bethesda and the Royal Armouries runs until Friday, May 16 and invites fans of history and gaming alike to explore a unique artistic tribute to the iconic DOOM videogames, blending real-world medieval weaponry and historical design with the myth and futuristic mayhem of the latest game.
At the heart of the exhibition is the Slayeux Tapestry — an 11-metre, hand-stitched display inspired by the famed Bayeux Tapestry which chronicles the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Meticulously designed by French illustrator Simon De Thuillières, the tapestry uses iconic imagery to depict the dynamic battles featured in the upcoming DOOM: The Dark Ages, which is being developed by id Software.
“It was a huge honour to reimagine the brutal saga of the DOOM Slayer through this medieval lens,” said illustrator Simon De Thuillières. “I take a lot of inspiration from videogames, so transforming the Slayer’s epic battles into a tapestry steeped in medieval style was both a challenge and a thrill. I can’t wait to hear what fans think of the blend of history and hellfire.”
The event launched in spectacular fashion with an appearance from Olivier Richters — the world-renowned strongman and Reacher star, also known as “The Dutch Giant.”
Dressed in full DOOM Slayer armour. Richters helped cut the ribbon on the experience that features a number of displays inspired by DOOM: The Dark Ages, all brought to life inside the UK’s iconic arms and armour museum.
Steve Merrett, Northern European marketing and communications director for Bethesda, said: “This collaboration is a thrilling fusion of art, history, and video game culture.
“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. With the Slayeux Tapestry sitting alongside the incredible collection of historic arms and armour, there’s no better place to bring the Slayer’s brutal legacy to life than the Royal Armouries.”
Florence Symington, director of brand and audiences for the Royal Armouries, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be partnering with Bethesda and the DOOM team, hosting this innovative new exhibition amongst our historic collection of arms and armour.
"We are always seeking ways to share our expertise and reach more people than ever before. Welcome to the Dark Ages offers a rare and exciting opportunity to engage new audiences with the rich heritage, artistry and history of arms and armour.
"Across the exhibition, visitors will get a fascinating insight into how centuries-old craftsmanship has influenced the weaponry and design of DOOM: The Dark Ages. We’re excited to have the universe of DOOM sit alongside our collection here at the Royal Armouries.”
The exhibition is free to all visitors. For more information, visit https://royalarmouries.org/leeds/whats-on/slayeux-tapestry-doom-the-dark-ages.
