Doom: The Dark Ages has rolled out its first comprehensive update since launch, addressing player feedback with gameplay tweaks, balance adjustments, and bug fixes. This update follows two earlier hotfixes and focuses on enhancing combat mechanics, particularly for dragon battles and Atlan mech encounters.

One of the standout changes in Update 1 revolves around the Doomslayer's dragon companion. The autocannon skills have been buffed to speed up dragon-related combat. Enemies now exclusively fire Hell Surge projectiles at the dragon, creating more opportunities to empower the autocannon. Additionally, the empowered state lasts longer, and perfect dodges now allow autocannon shots to penetrate enemy projectile shields.

The massive Atlan mech suits have also received significant updates. Health drops during Atlan missions now disappear faster, increasing the challenge. However, the combo system has been refined to allow repeated finishers, encouraging more dynamic and strategic gameplay. These changes aim to balance difficulty while expanding tactical options.

Update 1 includes numerous bug fixes addressing gameplay, audio, and visual issues. Notable fixes include resolving blurry graphics, correcting subtitle timings across languages, and ensuring music and sound effects play consistently during cutscenes. Achievements like the Berserker Trophy have also been fixed for affected players.

Below are the key highlights from the official patch notes:

• Dragon Combat: Empowered autocannon shots last longer and penetrate shields after perfect dodges.
• Atlan Mech: Health drops vanish faster, but finishers can now be chained for extended combos.
• Audio: Music and sound effects are rebalanced; VO and subtitle timing issues fixed.
• Rendering: HDR contrast adjustments to prevent washed-out visuals.