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Dune: Awakening Dev Says Its Release Date Is 'The Full Launch,' and While There's No Subscription, There Will Be 'Optional' DLCs

Author：Kristen Update：Apr 17,2025

Funcom, the developer behind the much-anticipated Dune: Awakening, has recently shared exciting updates about the game's business model and post-launch strategy. Mark your calendars for the full launch on May 20, as Funcom has confirmed this will not be an Early Access release but a complete launch of the game.

Inspired by Frank Herbert's iconic sci-fi novel and its movie adaptations, Dune: Awakening is a multiplayer survival game that breaks the mold by opting out of a subscription model, despite its MMO classification. Instead, Funcom plans to enrich the game with free updates that will introduce new content and features. For those looking for more, the game will also offer optional DLCs, adhering to what Funcom calls a "classic business model."

Funcom's commitment to long-term support is evident in their track record with games like Anarchy Online and Conan Exiles, which continue to receive free updates, DLCs, and expansions long after their initial release. Dune: Awakening will follow suit, promising ongoing expansion through free updates that will bring new content, features, and enhancements to the game.

Priced at $49.99, the standard edition of Dune: Awakening is set to offer a robust gaming experience. For those seeking more, the Deluxe Edition ($69.99) and Ultimate Edition ($89.99) provide additional benefits, including a five-day head start and exclusive items. The Deluxe and Ultimate Editions come with a Season Pass that unlocks four DLCs over time, with the first available at launch. The Deluxe Edition includes the armor of the Sardaukar, the elite military force that hunts players in the game. The Ultimate Edition encompasses all of the above, 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 the game rewards players with a universal color pattern applicable to vehicles, weapons, and armor, along with the Terrarium of Muad'Dib, an in-base decoration featuring the iconic desert mouse.

The Dune: Awakening Ultimate Edition. Image credit: Funcom.

For PC gamers, Funcom has detailed the system requirements and confirmed support for advanced graphics technologies such as Nvidia's DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation, AMD's FSR, and Intel's XeSS 2. This ensures a smooth and visually stunning experience for players.

Minimum PC System Requirements: