What is Dune: Awakening?
Dune: Awakening
Dune: Awakening is an upcoming open-world survival MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) game developed by Funcom in collaboration with German studio NUKKLEAR. The game is set in the legendary science fiction universe of Dune, created by Frank Herbert. It is scheduled for release on June 10, 2025, for PC, with early access starting on June 5 for Deluxe and Ultimate edition owners. Versions for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S are also in development, with release dates to be announced.
Storyline
The game takes place in an alternate timeline where Paul Atreides was never born. Arrakis is engulfed in a brutal civil war between House Atreides and House Harkonnen, while the Fremen have mysteriously vanished. Players assume the role of an agent of the Bene Gesserit, sent to investigate the disappearance of the Fremen and uncover the deeper mystery behind the "Sleeper."
Gameplay
Dune: Awakening blends classic survival mechanics with base-building, exploration, crafting, PvE content, and large-scale PvP warfare. Players begin by creating a unique character, customizing their background, appearance, and mentor — all of which impact their starting abilities and playstyle. For instance, a Bene Gesserit mentor unlocks special powers such as “The Voice,” used to manipulate NPCs or players.
Key Features:
- Survival Mechanics:
- Players must manage thirst, temperature, and exposure to environmental threats like sandstorms or Sardaukar patrols.
- Crafting & Base Building:
- Collect resources to craft weapons, armor, vehicles, and fortify desert bases. Blueprints can be saved and traded on the player-driven server marketplace.
- Spice Harvesting:
- Central to the Dune universe, Spice is a valuable resource players must fight over. Spice harvesting attracts deadly sandworms, making the process both rewarding and dangerous.
- Faction Alignment & Politics:
- Players can align with either House Atreides or House Harkonnen, access unique missions, and participate in political negotiations via the Landsraad system.
- PvE and PvP Zones:
- Arrakis is divided into zones with different danger levels. Safe areas offer PvE content, while deeper desert regions are PvP-enabled and highly competitive.
- Dynamic Map:
- Weekly Coriolis storms reshape the world, exposing new locations, resources, and routes, pushing exploration and conflict into ever-changing territory.
Development
The game was first revealed during Gamescom 2022, with Funcom announcing a multi-game partnership with Legendary Entertainment to develop Dune-based titles over a six-year period. Dune: Awakening is being developed using Unreal Engine 5, promising a highly immersive and visually stunning experience.
In early 2025, Funcom released a standalone benchmark and character creator, allowing players to preview the game’s performance and design their avatars ahead of launch. The benchmark tool helped players test their systems and retain their created character for use at launch.
Release Platforms and Timeline
- PC (Windows):
- Official release on June 10, 2025, with early access from June 5 for Deluxe/Ultimate editions.
- PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|S:
- Console versions are in development; release dates will be announced at a later time.
Highlighted Game Elements
- Massive Server Architecture:
- Hundreds of players can interact on shared servers, enabling large-scale battles and economic interaction.
- Character Customization:
- Deep RPG elements allow for extensive customization in origin, mentor choice, and personal traits.
- Player Economy:
- Players can trade blueprints, gear, and materials through an in-game market, encouraging specialization and cooperation.
- Dynamic Events & Ecosystem:
- Arrakis features shifting geography, real-time environmental events, and evolving threats, enhancing immersion and replayability.