Dune: Awakening Dev Confirms Full Launch Release, No Subscription, Optional DLCs Available

Dune: Awakening, the highly anticipated multiplayer survival game inspired by Frank Herbert’s iconic sci-fi novel and its cinematic adaptations, has received an exciting update from developer Funcom. The studio has confirmed that the game will launch in full on May 20, bypassing the Early Access phase. This full launch approach ensures players can dive into the complete experience right from the start.

Contrary to what might be expected from a game labeled as an MMO, Dune: Awakening will not require a subscription. Funcom is adopting a "classic business model" that will see the game grow through free updates, which will introduce new content and features. Additionally, players can expect optional DLCs to enhance their gameplay experience. This model mirrors the successful strategy Funcom has employed with its other long-standing MMOs, such as Anarchy Online and Conan Exiles, which continue to receive free updates, DLCs, and expansions years after their initial release. Funcom assures fans that Dune: Awakening will follow suit, continuously expanding with free updates that bring fresh content, features, and enhancements.

The game will be available in three editions: the Standard Edition priced at $49.99, the Deluxe Edition at $69.99, and the Ultimate Edition at $89.99. Both the Deluxe and Ultimate Editions offer players a five-day head start, along with several exclusive items. The Season Pass, included with the Deluxe and Ultimate Editions, will unlock four DLCs over time, with the first becoming available at launch. Deluxe Edition buyers will also receive the armor of the Sardaukar, the elite military force players encounter in the game. The Ultimate Edition includes all the Deluxe Edition content, plus Paul Atreides’ iconic stillsuit from the 2021 film, a digital artbook, a digital soundtrack, unique color patterns, and the Caladan Palace Set, which comes with building pieces, placeables, and decorations.

Pre-ordering any edition of Dune: Awakening grants players a universal color pattern that can be applied to vehicles, weapons, and armor, as well as the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, an in-base decoration featuring the iconic desert mouse.

The Dune: Awakening Ultimate Edition. Image credit: Funcom.

Funcom has also detailed the PC features and system requirements for Dune: Awakening. The game supports advanced graphics technologies such as Nvidia’s DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, AMD’s FSR, and Intel’s XeSS 2, ensuring a top-notch visual experience for players. Here are the system requirements: