Dune: Awakening's developer has exciting news for fans: the game will launch fully on May 20 without any monthly subscription fees. 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
Funcom, the developer behind Dune: Awakening, has confirmed that the game will see its complete release on May 20, bypassing the early access phase. A recent Steam blog post from March 21 shed light on the game's business model, system requirements, and what to expect post-launch.
This eagerly awaited multiplayer survival game, inspired by the iconic 1965 science fiction novel, breaks from tradition by not requiring a monthly subscription—a common practice among competitors like Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online. Instead, Funcom promises to enrich the game experience through free updates that will introduce new content, features, and enhancements.
The developer's commitment to long-term support is backed by their track record with live service games. Funcom's portfolio includes Anarchy Online, soon to celebrate its 25th anniversary, and Conan Exiles, which continues to thrive with regular updates, DLCs, and expansions long after its initial release.
Pre-Orders Live Now and Game Editions Revealed
In the same Steam blog, Funcom announced the availability of optional paid DLCs and the imminent start of pre-orders. Just a week later, on March 24, Dune: Awakening's official website went live with detailed information about the game's editions and confirmed that pre-orders are now open.
Players can choose from three editions when pre-ordering—Standard, Deluxe, or Ultimate. Pre-ordering any edition grants two exclusive in-game items: the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, a stunning in-base decoration, and the Sunset Dye Global Swatch, a distinctive color pattern for weapons, vehicles, and armor.
Opting for the Deluxe or Ultimate edition also offers a 5-day head start, allowing access to the game from May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:
- Season Pass: Featuring 4 DLCs, starting with placeables inspired by Arrakis' wildlife, including Shai-Hulud. The remaining three DLCs will follow.
- Sardaukar Bator Armor: The iconic armor of the elite Sardaukar military force, which hunts players in the game.
- One copy of the base game
The Ultimate edition builds on the Deluxe package with additional 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 stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides in the film.
- Digital Artbook: A comprehensive 50-page artbook featuring artworks from the game's development.
- Digital Soundtrack: 90 minutes of immersive music from the game.
For more detailed insights into Dune: Awakening's pre-order options and DLCs, be sure to check out our comprehensive article below!