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Dune: Awakening - A Subscription-Free MMO Experience

by Aaron Mar 31,2025

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 the game will be released in full, without an early access period, and will not require a monthly subscription. This decision sets Dune: Awakening apart from other MMOs like Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online, which rely on subscription models. Instead, Funcom plans to support the game with free updates, ensuring a continuous flow of new content, features, and enhancements post-launch.

Funcom's experience with live service games, including the long-standing Anarchy Online and the ever-evolving Conan Exiles, underpins their commitment to long-term support for Dune: Awakening. This approach promises a rich and evolving gaming experience for players without the burden of recurring fees.

Pre-Orders and Game Editions

Pre-orders for Dune: Awakening are now live, offering players the chance to secure one of three editions: Standard, Deluxe, or Ultimate. Each pre-order comes with two exclusive in-game items: 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 the base game, the menacing Sardaukar Bator Armor, and a Season Pass featuring four DLCs. The first DLC will introduce placeables inspired by Arrakis' wildlife, including the iconic Shai-Hulud, with the subsequent three DLCs to be released later.

The Ultimate edition builds on the Deluxe offering with additional exclusive items: 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!

Dune: Awakening Will Be an MMO With No Monthly SubscriptionsDune: Awakening Will Be an MMO With No Monthly SubscriptionsDune: Awakening Will Be an MMO With No Monthly Subscriptions