Dune: Awakening Launches as Free-to-Play MMO

The developer of Dune: Awakening has confirmed the game will launch without requiring a monthly subscription. Learn more about the latest developer announcements, including information about the different editions available for purchase.

Dune: Awakening Arrives on May 20

No Early Access and No Monthly Fee

Funcom, the developer behind Dune: Awakening, has announced the game will fully launch on May 20, rather than going through an early access phase. A recent Steam blog post from March 21 shared details about the game’s business model, system requirements, and future content plans.

Unlike many MMOs such as Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online, Dune: Awakening—a multiplayer survival game based on the iconic 1965 sci-fi novel—will not require a monthly subscription. Instead, the developer promises to deliver ongoing free updates, bringing new content, features, and improvements over time.

Funcom emphasized their long-term commitment to supporting the game post-launch, pointing to their track record with live-service titles. Their portfolio includes Anarchy Online, which will celebrate its 25th anniversary next year, and Conan Exiles, which continues to receive frequent free updates, expansions, and DLCs.

Pre-Orders Now Available With Multiple Editions

In the same Steam blog, the developer mentioned that the game will feature optional paid DLCs and that pre-orders would begin soon. A few days later, on March 24, Dune: Awakening’s official website provided a detailed breakdown of the available editions and confirmed that pre-orders are now live.

Players who pre-order any of the three editions—Standard, Deluxe, or Ultimate—will receive two exclusive in-game items: the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, a decorative base element, and the Sunset Dye Global Swatch, a unique color scheme for weapons, vehicles, and armor.

In addition, those who pre-order the Deluxe or Ultimate edition will get a five-day head start, gaining access on May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:

　●　Season Pass: Grants access to four DLCs. The first introduces new placeables inspired by Arrakis wildlife, including the fearsome Shai-Hulud. The remaining three DLCs will follow later.
　●　Sardaukar Bator Armor: The intimidating armor worn by the elite Sardaukar soldiers, who hunt players in the game world.
　●　Base Game: A copy of the core game.

The Ultimate edition includes all Deluxe edition content, plus:

　●　Dusk Rider Sandbike Swatch: A unique color design for your sandbike.
　●　Blue Dasher Ornithopter Swatch: A special color scheme for your ornithopter.
　●　Caladan Palace Building Set: Building components and decor inspired by the 2021 film.
　●　Dune 2021 Film Stillsuit: The iconic stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides.
　●　Digital Artbook: A 50-page collection of concept art from the game’s development.
　●　Digital Soundtrack: Over 90 minutes of in-game music.

For the full details on Dune: Awakening's pre-orders and DLCs, take a look at our article below.