Dune Awakening, an open-world survival MMO set in the vast and unforgiving desert landscapes of Arrakis, is the latest ambitious project from Funcom, the developers behind the successful Conan Exiles. Announced at Gamescom 2022, this game is generating immense excitement among fans of the Dune franchise and the survival MMO genre.
Set in the year 10199 AG, about eight years after the events of Denis Villeneuve’s 2021 Dune film, Dune Awakening offers an alternate history that diverges from the books and films. This setting gives Funcom the creative freedom to explore new storylines and interactions with key characters like Paul Atreides and Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, without being constrained by the existing canon. The game’s narrative promises to expand the Dune universe, introducing new allies and enemies, and unraveling mysteries beneath the surface of the sands.
In Dune Awakening, players begin their journey on Arrakis, known as the deadliest planet in the universe, where water is a precious commodity. The game promises a deep character creation system, allowing players to craft their identity and build their prowess through skills and abilities that develop with use. Players will have to declare their loyalties through their actions and attire, shaping their reputation in the game world.
The survival aspect of the game is a crucial component, where players must learn to find water and maintain their stillsuit, craft shelter against sun and sandstorms, and navigate the risks of the open desert, including the ever-present threat of sandworms. The game emphasizes crafting, where players can create weapons, armor, vehicles, attachments, modifications, and much more, honing their skills and acquiring rare schematics for survival and progression.
Dune Awakening brings the epic landscapes of Arrakis to life, inviting players to explore canyons, caves, ancient Ecology Labs, rolling dunes, and bustling villages. The game world is ever-changing, with massive Coriolis storms regularly altering the landscape and uncovering new secrets, from valuable resources to crashed ships and ancient testing stations.
Combat in the game includes third-person melee and ranged options, with the exciting addition of vehicles for both ground and air combat. Controlling Spice, the most valuable resource in the universe, is a central goal, with players able to harvest spice, sell it, or consume it for expanded potential at the cost of addiction.
Dune Awakening is being developed for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S. While the game does not have a confirmed release date, it could see early access in 2024. The game is set to offer a unique blend of survival gameplay with the social interactivity of a massive multiplayer game, making it one of the most anticipated titles in the upcoming gaming landscape.
