Dune: Awakening released a trailer that gave away the release date. The game will be an MMO, so it seems the series is going the games-as-a-service route.
Dune: Awakening will be released on May 20, 2025, for PC. The release date for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S Versions will come out later. The game takes place in a different storyline within the Dune universe.
There’s a free character creator and benchmark tool available now on the Steam page. This lets players create their characters and check if their systems can run the game before it comes out. Anyone who uses these tools will get a special in-game item.
The game combines elements of an MMO and survival, where players explore the tough landscape of Arrakis. You need to gather resources, build shelters, and take care of basic needs like water. Gameplay includes exploring the world, crafting items, fighting both other players and dangerous environmental threats, and navigating the game’s political system known as the Landsraad.
Players can start as lowly prisoners and work their way up to powerful figures in the Atreides or Harkonnen factions. Key survival aspects include finding protection from sandstorms, staying away from sandworms, and conserving water. Players also face environmental challenges like extreme heat and quicksand.
Funcom has put out several trailers and short videos that give a sneak peek into the game’s graphics, gameplay, and story. These videos highlight the game’s visuals, combat, and the challenges players will encounter. The developers have also shared more information about how players progress and the political systems in the later stages of the game. The game world is flexible, so changes in the environment can affect how the game is played.
While this is made by the same developer that made Conan: Exiles, it will likely not have the same freedoms Conan: Exiles did. So, things like private servers and optional PvP are likely not going to be here. PvP is exclusive to certain areas, however, so it’s something players who aren’t happy about Dune’s move to MMO can avoid.
If you pre-order the game on Steam for $49.99, you’ll also get an extra cosmetic item. Xbox and PlayStation versions will likely be revealed as the game gets closer to release.
Source: Funcom/YouTube
