Dune: Awakening is set to revolutionize the MMO genre with its upcoming release, promising a full launch without the burden of monthly subscriptions. Dive into the latest updates from the developers and explore the various editions available for purchase.
Dune: Awakening Coming on May 20
No Early Access and No Monthly Subscription
Dune: Awakening's developer, Funcom, has officially announced that the game will fully launch on May 20, bypassing the early access phase. In a detailed blog post on Steam dated March 21, Funcom shared insights into the game's business model, system requirements, and plans for post-launch support.
This eagerly anticipated multiplayer survival game, inspired by the iconic 1965 science fiction novel by Frank Herbert, will not adopt the monthly subscription model common among its MMO counterparts like Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online. Instead, Funcom plans to enrich the gaming experience through free updates that will introduce new content, features, and enhancements.
Funcom's commitment to long-term support is bolstered by their successful track record with live service games. Their portfolio includes Anarchy Online, soon to celebrate its 25th anniversary, and Conan Exiles, which continues to thrive with regular free updates, DLCs, and expansions.
Pre-Orders Live Now and Game Editions Revealed
Following their March 21 announcement, Funcom revealed more details about the game's editions and the availability of pre-orders on their official website on March 24. Players can choose from three editions of Dune: Awakening: Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate.
Pre-ordering any edition grants players two exclusive in-game items: the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, a stunning in-base decoration, and the Sunset Dye Global Swatch, a unique color pattern applicable to weapons, vehicles, and armor.
Opting for the Deluxe or Ultimate edition provides a 5-day head start, allowing access to the game from May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:
- Season Pass: Access to 4 DLCs. The first DLC features placeables inspired by Arrakis wildlife, including Shai-Hulud, with the subsequent three DLCs to be released later.
- Sardaukar Bator Armor: The fearsome armor of the Sardaukar, the elite force that hunts players in the game.
- One copy of the base game
The Ultimate edition builds on the Deluxe edition with additional exclusive items:
- Dusk Rider Sandbike Swatch: A unique color pattern for your sandbike
- Blue Dasher Ornithopter Swatch: A unique color pattern for your ornithopter
- Caladan Palace Building Set: Building pieces and placeables from the 2021 film
- Dune 2021 Film Stillsuit: The iconic stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides in the film
- Digital Artbook: A 50-page collection of artwork from the game's development
- Digital Soundtrack: A 90-minute musical journey through the game's score
For more detailed information on Dune: Awakening's pre-order options and DLCs, be sure to check out our comprehensive article below!