Dune: Awakening's developer, Funcom, has exciting news for fans eagerly awaiting the full release of this much-anticipated MMO. Set in the vast and treacherous world inspired by Frank Herbert's iconic 1965 novel, Dune: Awakening promises to deliver an immersive multiplayer survival experience without the burden of monthly subscriptions. Let's dive into the latest updates and explore the various game editions available for pre-order.
Dune: Awakening Coming on May 20
No Early Access and No Monthly Subscription
Dune: Awakening is gearing up for its full release on May 20, bypassing the early access phase that many games opt for. This decision was shared in a detailed blog post on Steam dated March 21, which also shed light on the game's business model, system requirements, and plans for post-launch support.
Unlike other MMOs such as Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online, which require a monthly subscription, Dune: Awakening will be subscription-free. Instead, Funcom plans to keep the game fresh and engaging through free updates that will introduce new content, features, and enhancements over time. The developer's experience with long-term support for live service games is evident in their successful titles like Anarchy Online, which will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, and Conan Exiles, which continues to receive regular updates and expansions.
Pre-Orders Live Now and Game Editions Revealed
In the same Steam blog, Funcom announced that Dune: Awakening will offer optional paid DLCs, and pre-orders are now available. Just a week after this announcement, on March 24, the official website of Dune: Awakening revealed the details of the three editions up for grabs: Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate.
Pre-ordering any edition grants players two exclusive in-game items: the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, a beautifully crafted in-base decoration, and the Sunset Dye Global Swatch, a unique color pattern that can be applied to weapons, vehicles, and armor.
For those opting for the Deluxe or Ultimate editions, there's an added bonus: a 5-day head start, allowing access to the game from May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:
- Season Pass: Access to 4 DLCs, with the first featuring placeables inspired by Arrakis' wildlife, including the iconic Shai-Hulud. The subsequent three DLCs are slated for release at later dates.
- Sardaukar Bator Armor: The formidable armor of the elite Sardaukar military force, which players will encounter in the game.
- One copy of the base game.
The Ultimate edition builds on the Deluxe edition with additional exclusive content:
- Dusk Rider Sandbike Swatch: A distinctive color pattern for your sandbike.
- Blue Dasher Ornithopter Swatch: A unique color pattern for your ornithopter.
- Caladan Palace Building Set: Building pieces and placeables inspired by the 2021 film.
- Dune 2021 Film Stillsuit: The iconic stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides in the film.
- Digital Artbook: A comprehensive 50-page artbook showcasing the game's development art.
- Digital Soundtrack: 90 minutes of captivating music from the game.
For more detailed information about Dune: Awakening's pre-order options and DLCs, be sure to check out our dedicated article below!
