Dune: Awakening Set for Full Launch, Offers Optional DLCs, No Subscription Required

Funcom, the developer behind the eagerly anticipated Dune: Awakening, has provided an exciting update on the game's business model and post-launch plans. The studio has confirmed that the game's release on May 20 will be a "full launch" rather than an Early Access release. This multiplayer survival game, inspired by Frank Herbert's iconic sci-fi novel and its movie adaptations, will not require a subscription despite being classified as an MMO.

Instead of a subscription model, Funcom plans to expand Dune: Awakening through regular free updates, bringing new content, features, and enhancements to the game. Additionally, the studio will adopt a "classic business model" by offering optional DLCs. Funcom has a proven track record with its long-standing MMOs, such as Anarchy Online and Conan Exiles, which continue to receive free updates, DLCs, and expansions years after their initial launch. "Dune: Awakening will be no exception," Funcom assured, promising ongoing development and support for the game.

The standard edition of Dune: Awakening is priced at $49.99. For those looking for more, the Deluxe Edition ($69.99) and Ultimate Edition ($89.99) are available, offering players a five-day head start and a variety of unique items. The Deluxe Edition and Ultimate Edition include a Season Pass that unlocks four DLCs over time, with the first one available at launch. Players who opt for the Deluxe Edition will also receive the armor of the Sardaukar, the elite military force that players encounter in the game. The Ultimate Edition encompasses all the Deluxe Edition perks, plus Paul Atreides’ iconic stillsuit from the 2021 film, a digital artbook, a digital soundtrack, unique color patterns, and the Caladan Palace Set, complete with building pieces, placeables, and decorations.

Pre-ordering any edition of Dune: Awakening comes with additional bonuses, including a universal color pattern applicable to vehicles, weapons, and armor, as well as the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, an in-base decoration featuring the iconic desert mouse.

Funcom has also detailed the PC features and system requirements for Dune: Awakening. The game will support Nvidia's DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, AMD's FSR, and Intel's XeSS 2 technologies, ensuring a smooth and visually impressive experience.

Minimum System Requirements:

• OS: Windows 10 64-bit (or newer)
• Processor: Intel Core i5-7400, AMD Ryzen 3 1200
• Memory: 16 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 (6GB), AMD Radeon 5600XT (6GB)
• Storage: 60 GB available space

Recommended System Requirements:

• OS: Windows 10 64-bit (or newer)
• Processor: Intel Core i7-10700K, AMD Ryzen 5 2600X
• Memory: 16 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 (8GB), AMD Radeon 6700XT (12GB)
• Storage: 75 GB available space

For more detailed insights into Dune: Awakening, be sure to check out IGN’s final preview of the game.