The developer of Dune: Awakening has exciting news for fans eagerly awaiting the release of this much-anticipated MMO. Set to launch on May 20, Dune: Awakening will be fully released without any early access or monthly subscription fees. This decision sets the game apart from other popular MMOs like Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online, which rely on monthly subscriptions.
In a detailed blog post on Steam dated March 21, Funcom, the developer behind Dune: Awakening, outlined the game's business model, system requirements, and plans for post-launch content. They emphasized that the game will be supported with free updates, ensuring a steady stream of new content, features, and enhancements without the need for a subscription.
Funcom's experience with live service games gives players confidence in the longevity of Dune: Awakening. Their portfolio includes long-standing titles like Anarchy Online, soon to celebrate its 25th anniversary, and Conan Exiles, which continues to receive free updates, DLCs, and expansions well beyond its initial release.
Pre-Orders and Game Editions
Following the announcement, Dune: Awakening opened pre-orders on March 24, offering three distinct editions: Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate. Each edition comes with pre-order bonuses, 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.
Pre-ordering the Deluxe or Ultimate edition grants players a 5-day head start, allowing access to the game from May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:
- Season Pass: Access to 4 DLCs. The first DLC will feature placeables inspired by Arrakis' wildlife, including Shai-Hulud. The remaining three DLCs are slated for future release.
- Sardaukar Bator Armor: The iconic armor of the elite Sardaukar military force, which players will encounter as adversaries in the game.
- One copy of the base game
The Ultimate edition encompasses all Deluxe edition items and adds:
- 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 stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides in the film.
- Digital Artbook: A 50-page artbook featuring artworks from the game's development.
- Digital Soundtrack: 90 minutes of music from the game.
For more detailed information on Dune: Awakening's pre-order options and DLCs, be sure to check out our comprehensive article below!
