As the highly anticipated release of Dune: Awakening approaches, developer Funcom is gearing up for a potentially crowded launch. With a large-scale beta scheduled for this weekend, let's dive into Funcom's plans for managing their servers and what fans can look forward to.
Dune: Awakening Pre-Launch Updates
Funcom’s Servers Are Prepared
With Dune: Awakening nearing its release, Funcom is reassuring fans that they're ready for a packed launch in June. In a detailed Steam post dated May 7, the developer addressed concerns about server capacity following the first closed beta. They elaborated on the game's server structure and large-scale multiplayer mechanics.
At the outset, players will select a server within a World, which comprises at least 20 servers. This setup allows for interactions among players from different servers within the same World.
Addressing fan concerns about server load and queue times, Funcom anticipates a high volume of players at launch. They've assured that there will be "thousands of servers grouped together in hundreds of Worlds available at launch."
Funcom clarified, "What’s important to note is that while a Hagga Basin server can support 40 people playing concurrently, the way populations ebb and flow over the course of a day means that it still supports several hundred people picking that server as their home." They emphasized that rigorous testing during the closed beta has prepared them to manage server popularity, with systems in place to prevent servers from becoming overcrowded.
While Dune: Awakening emphasizes large-scale multiplayer, it also offers a solo experience on Arrakis. However, single-player and private servers won't be available at launch but are planned for future updates.
What To Expect During The Large-Scale Beta Weekend
Before the official launch, Dune: Awakening is hosting a large-scale beta weekend, and Funcom has shared more about what players can expect. In a post on the game's official website on May 8, they outlined the features of the upcoming beta.
To participate in the beta weekend, fans can wishlist and request access on the game's Steam page, sign up on the official website, or obtain an access code during the Global LAN party on May 10.
The beta weekend will run from May 9 to May 12. Check the timetable below to find out when the stream starts in your region:
During the beta, players will experience the first 20-25 hours of the game, covering early to mid-game content. Key features include the CHOAM building set, the Hagga Basin South region, Eastern and Western Vermillius Gap Region, access to the Sandbike, early and mid-game combat, and parts of Act I of the story. Funcom has confirmed that player progress during the beta will not carry over to the full game.
Dune: Awakening is slated for release on June 10, 2025, for PC, with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S versions coming at a later, yet-to-be-announced date. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting game!
