Dune: Awakening MMO Launches Without Monthly Fees

Dune: Awakening, the highly anticipated multiplayer survival game inspired by Frank Herbert's iconic 1965 science fiction novel, is set to launch on May 20. Developer Funcom has confirmed that this will be the game's full release, bypassing the early access phase. In a significant departure from many of its MMO counterparts like Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online, Dune: Awakening will not require a monthly subscription. Instead, the game will be supported through free updates that will introduce new content, features, and enhancements, ensuring a continually evolving gameplay experience.

Funcom, with its rich history in managing live service games, is well-positioned to support Dune: Awakening long-term. The developer's portfolio includes Anarchy Online, which is approaching its 25th anniversary, and Conan Exiles, which continues to receive regular updates, DLCs, and expansions post-launch.

Pre-Orders and Game Editions

Pre-orders for Dune: Awakening are now live, offering players the choice between three editions: Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate. Each edition comes with unique in-game items, including the Terrarium of Muad'Dib, a detailed in-base decoration, and the Sunset Dye Global Swatch, a unique color pattern applicable to weapons, vehicles, and armor.

Opting for the Deluxe or Ultimate edition grants players a 5-day head start, allowing access to the game from May 15. The Deluxe edition includes a Season Pass with four DLCs, the first of which will feature placeables inspired by Arrakis' wildlife, including the iconic Shai-Hulud. Subsequent DLCs will be released later. Additionally, the Deluxe edition offers the Sardaukar Bator Armor, worn by the elite military force in the game, along with a copy of the base game.

The Ultimate edition builds on the Deluxe edition with exclusive items such as the Dusk Rider Sandbike Swatch and Blue Dasher Ornithopter Swatch for unique vehicle color patterns, the Caladan Palace Building Set inspired by the 2021 film, the Dune 2021 Film Stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides, a 50-page digital artbook showcasing the game's development, and a 90-minute digital soundtrack.

For more detailed information on Dune: Awakening's pre-order options and DLCs, be sure to check out our comprehensive article below!