The Dune franchise has a rich history in gaming, but after a long drought, it’s making a triumphant return with not one, but two new titles. While Dune: Spice Wars, a real-time strategy game, has been garnering attention, it’s Dune: Awakening that’s capturing the imagination of survival game enthusiasts. This ambitious project, unveiled at Gamescom 2022, promises to be a massive open-world experience unlike anything seen before.
Release Date and Platforms:
Dune: Awakening is slated for a PC release in early 2025, with console versions (PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S) still lacking a confirmed release window.
A Glimpse into the World of Arrakis:
The game’s CGI announcement trailer, showcasing a lone man facing a sandworm, provides a tantalizing glimpse into the world of Dune: Awakening. The trailer’s visuals evoke the harsh and unforgiving desert landscape of Arrakis, hinting at the dangers that await players. We learn that players will start as nameless prisoners, allowing for full character customization, and begin their journey after their ship crash-lands on the planet.
Survival and Social Interaction:
Dune: Awakening’s core gameplay revolves around survival in the brutal desert of Arrakis. Players will need to build shelters, maintain their stillsuits, and gather resources to survive the harsh conditions. The game promises a vast world where thousands of players will interact, creating a dynamic and unpredictable environment.
Spice, Guilds, and Factions:
The coveted spice, the lifeblood of the Dune universe, plays a central role in Dune: Awakening. Players will be able to harvest spice, fight over its control, and use it to gain power and influence. The game will feature various factions, including the Mentat, Trooper, Planetologist, Swordmaster, and Bene Gesserit, allowing players to align with House Harkonnen or Atreides.
Multiplayer and Player-Driven Factions:
Dune: Awakening’s multiplayer aspect is a core feature, promising a vast and dynamic world populated by thousands of players. The game will feature a player-driven faction system, allowing players to create their own guilds and compete for control of the spice and territory.
Pre-Order and Beta:
While pre-orders are not yet available, players can sign up for the beta to receive updates and gain early access to the game. No specific timeframe for the beta has been announced.
Dune: Awakening promises a unique and thrilling experience for fans of the Dune universe and survival game enthusiasts alike. As we inch closer to its release, anticipation for this immersive and ambitious open-world MMO continues to grow.
