When discussing iconic franchises in the FPS genre, one title that often gets overlooked is Painkiller. Similar to Doom: The Dark Ages, this forthcoming game isn't merely a remake; it’s a fresh installment that reimagines the series, even if the story has never been a focal point. Unlike other FPS titles such as Borderlands 4, which feature an abundance of RPG elements and skills, this game will center on high-octane action. If you’ve been yearning for that classic FPS thrill, let’s delve into what this new Painkiller has to offer.
Release Window
Painkiller is set to launch sooner than anticipated, with a release scheduled for Fall 2025.
Platforms
Confirmed platforms for Painkiller include PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. There will be no versions available for last-gen consoles or the Switch, though a future port for the anticipated Switch 2 may be possible.
Trailers
The new Painkiller, sharing the same title as the original, was unveiled at the Future Games Show in March 2025. The announcement trailer, under a minute long, is filled with intense gameplay. While the storyline appears to be minimal, the setup indicates that the protagonist is trapped in Purgatory and has the opportunity, granted by the Voice of the Creator, to become a Champion. The mission is to defeat Azazel before he can release his legions of demons on Earth in order to secure salvation.
Gameplay
The gameplay showcased in the trailer, while heavily edited, demonstrates the rapid-paced action and gore that Painkiller aims for. A variety of weapons, including pistols, rifles, grenade launchers, and a bizarre fire beam weapon, are already featured. The enemies are the grotesque minions of Azazel, taking on a plethora of disturbing forms akin to those found in Doom.
Movement plays a significant role as jumps, dashes, and grapples are utilized to traverse the environments efficiently.
Notably, this iteration of Painkiller will offer solo and online co-op play for up to three players or AI bots. Each player will have the option to choose one of four unique characters: Ink, Void, Sol, or Roch, each boasting distinct skills and abilities. Additionally, players can enhance their characters through tarot cards that improve various aspects of their builds and can synergize with their teammates’ cards for even greater effects.
Preorder
While we await a concrete release date, there currently are no preorder options for Painkiller. However, you can add the game to your wishlist to receive updates and check back as we continue to provide more information.
