Dune: Awakening MMO Launches Without Monthly Fees

Dune: Awakening's developer, Funcom, has exciting news for fans eagerly awaiting the game's release. The much-anticipated multiplayer survival game, inspired by Frank Herbert's iconic 1965 science fiction novel, is set to launch fully on May 20, without the need for a monthly subscription. This approach sets Dune: Awakening apart from other MMOs like Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online, which rely on subscription models. Instead, Funcom has promised to keep the game fresh and engaging through continuous free updates, introducing new content, features, and enhancements post-launch.

Funcom's commitment to long-term support is backed by their successful history with live service games. They're the minds behind Anarchy Online, soon to celebrate its 25th anniversary, and Conan Exiles, which continues to receive regular free updates, DLCs, and expansions well beyond its initial release.

No Early Access and No Monthly Subscription

Dune: Awakening's full release on May 20 was detailed in a Steam blog post dated March 21. This announcement clarified that the game would bypass an early access phase, opting for a direct full release. The blog also shed light on the game's business model, system requirements, and what players can expect in terms of post-launch support.

Pre-Orders Live Now and Game Editions Revealed

In a follow-up announcement on March 24, Funcom revealed that pre-orders for Dune: Awakening are now open. The game will be available in three editions: Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate. Pre-ordering any edition grants players 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 offers an additional perk: a 5-day head start, allowing access to the game from May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:

• Season Pass: Access to 4 DLCs, starting with placeables inspired by Arrakis' wildlife, including Shai-Hulud. The subsequent three DLCs will be released later.
• Sardaukar Bator Armor: The intimidating armor of the elite Sardaukar military force, which players will encounter in the game.
• One copy of the base game

The Ultimate edition builds on the Deluxe edition with these additional items:

• 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 collection of 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!