Celebrate 30 years of Quake with a brand-new episode, available today

Thirty years after Quake’s original release, developer MachineGames in collaboration with id Software has launched Dawn of the Machine as a free update for existing Quake owners on PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4. The expansion includes a full 19-map campaign, a new soundtrack, and a Deathmatch map, marking the anniversary of both the game and QuakeCon, North America’s largest LAN event. The update is available immediately and does not require a separate purchase.

The expansion introduces a continuous 19-map campaign where players control the Ranger protagonist in a looping time cycle, uncovering upgrades and breaking the illusion to defeat The Nightmare Machine. New weapon variants such as the Laser Cannon and Super Axe complement familiar enemies like the Rocket Ogre and Blood Shambler, emphasizing classic fast-paced combat. Lead Level Designer Andrew Yoder described the goal as creating an authentic Quake experience focused on horror, action, and madness, while avoiding the hub-based structure of previous expansions.

Development prioritized three objectives: celebrating Quake’s legacy, offering veterans a fresh experience, and enabling collaborative skill-building within a smaller project scope. The continuous campaign required significant coordination, with the team iterating extensively to balance progression and challenge. Yoder noted that the project allowed team members to contribute beyond their usual roles, fostering creativity and learning across disciplines.

The soundtrack, created by Advanced Level Designer Christian Plogfors, was a notable contribution, providing a dark, ambient tone that enhances the episode’s ethereal setting. Reflecting on the project, Yoder emphasized the team’s gratitude to the Quake community and id Software, acknowledging the game’s lasting influence. The expansion is positioned as both a tribute to Quake’s history and a testament to the ongoing creativity within the franchise.