Dune: Awakening MMO Launches Without Monthly Fees

Dune: Awakening is set to make waves in the gaming world with its full release on May 20, and the developer has confirmed that there will be no monthly subscription required to enjoy the game. Dive into the latest updates from the developer, including details on the game's business model, system requirements, and the various editions available for purchase.

Dune: Awakening Coming on May 20

No Early Access and No Monthly Subscription

Dune: Awakening's developer, Funcom, has officially announced that the game will launch in full on May 20, bypassing the early access phase. This exciting news was shared in their latest Steam blog post on March 21, where they also outlined their plans for the game's business model, system requirements, and what players can expect post-launch.

Set in the universe of Frank Herbert's iconic 1965 novel, Dune: Awakening promises a thrilling multiplayer survival experience without the need for a monthly subscription, setting it apart from other MMOs like Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online. Instead, Funcom plans to keep the game fresh and engaging through regular free updates that will introduce new content, features, and enhancements.

With a commitment to long-term support, Funcom draws on their extensive experience in managing live service games. They are the creators of Anarchy Online, which will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, and Conan Exiles, which continues to thrive with free updates, DLCs, and expansions well beyond its initial release.

Pre-Orders Live Now and Game Editions Revealed

In addition to the no-subscription model, Funcom has introduced optional paid DLCs for Dune: Awakening. Following their announcement, pre-orders went live on March 24, offering players the chance to secure one of three editions of the game: Standard, Deluxe, or Ultimate.

Pre-ordering any edition grants players two exclusive in-game items: the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, an intricate base decoration, and the Sunset Dye Global Swatch, a unique color pattern that can be used on weapons, vehicles, and armor.

Those who opt for the Deluxe or Ultimate edition will enjoy a 5-day head start, allowing them to dive into the game as early as May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:

• Season Pass: Access to 4 DLCs, with the first featuring placeables inspired by Arrakis' wildlife, including the iconic Shai-Hulud. The remaining three DLCs will be released subsequently.
• Sardaukar Bator Armor: The intimidating armor of the Sardaukar, the elite force that players will encounter in the game.
• One copy of the base game

The Ultimate edition encompasses everything in the Deluxe edition, plus:

• 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 iconic stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides in the film
• Digital Artbook: A 50-page artbook showcasing artworks from the game's development
• Digital Soundtrack: 90 minutes of music from the game

For a deeper dive into Dune: Awakening's pre-order options and DLCs, be sure to check out our detailed article below!