Dune: Awakening is set to redefine the multiplayer survival genre by launching without a monthly subscription, as confirmed by its developer, Funcom. This eagerly awaited game, inspired by the iconic 1965 science fiction novel, will make its full release on May 20. Read further to discover more about the game's updates, business model, and the various editions available for purchase.
Dune: Awakening Coming on May 20
No Early Access and No Monthly Subscription
In a recent Steam blog post dated March 21, Funcom announced that Dune: Awakening will hit the market on May 20 as a complete release, bypassing the early access phase. This move sets it apart from other MMOs like Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online, which rely on monthly subscriptions. Instead, Dune: Awakening will evolve through free updates, ensuring players receive new content, features, and enhancements without additional costs.
Funcom's commitment to supporting the game post-launch is bolstered by their experience with live service games. Their portfolio includes Anarchy Online, which will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, and Conan Exiles, which continues to thrive with regular free updates, DLCs, and expansions.
Pre-Orders Live Now and Game Editions Revealed
Following the March 21 announcement, Dune: Awakening opened pre-orders on March 24, offering three distinct editions: Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate. Each edition comes with unique in-game items, including the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, a detailed base decoration, and the Sunset Dye Global Swatch, a unique color pattern for weapons, vehicles, and armor.
Pre-ordering the Deluxe or Ultimate edition grants players a 5-day head start, allowing access to the game on May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:
- Season Pass: Access to 4 DLCs, starting with wildlife-inspired placeables from Arrakis, including the legendary Shai-Hulud. The subsequent three DLCs will be released later.
- Sardaukar Bator Armor: The intimidating armor of the elite Sardaukar forces.
- One copy of the base game.
The Ultimate edition, in addition to the Deluxe content, offers:
- 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 inspired by the 2021 film.
- Dune 2021 Film Stillsuit: The iconic stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides.
- Digital Artbook: A comprehensive 50-page collection of artworks from the game's development.
- Digital Soundtrack: 90 minutes of immersive music from the game.
For more details on Dune: Awakening's pre-orders and DLCs, explore our in-depth article below!
