Dune: Awakening MMO Launches Without Monthly Fees

Dune: Awakening's developers have exciting news for fans: the game will launch without any monthly subscription fees. Dive into the latest updates from the developer and explore the various editions available for purchase.

Dune: Awakening Coming on May 20

No Early Access and No Monthly Subscription

Dune: Awakening, the much-anticipated multiplayer survival game inspired by Frank Herbert's 1965 sci-fi masterpiece, is set to fully launch on May 20. Developer Funcom has made it clear in their latest Steam blog post dated March 21 that this will not be an early access release. Instead, players can look forward to a complete game experience from the get-go.

One of the standout features of Dune: Awakening is its business model. Unlike other MMOs such as Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online, which rely on monthly subscriptions, Dune: Awakening will not require any ongoing fees. Funcom has promised to keep the game fresh and engaging through free updates that will introduce new content, features, and enhancements.

The developer emphasized their commitment to long-term support, citing their successful track record with other live service games. Funcom's portfolio includes Anarchy Online, soon to celebrate its 25th anniversary, and Conan Exiles, which continues to receive regular updates, DLCs, and expansions.

Pre-Orders Live Now and Game Editions Revealed

In addition to the no-subscription model, Funcom announced that Dune: Awakening will offer optional paid DLCs. Pre-orders for the game opened shortly after the announcement, on March 24, and are now live on the official website.

Players can choose from three editions of the game: 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 for weapons, vehicles, and armor.

Those opting for the Deluxe or Ultimate editions will enjoy a 5-day head start, gaining access to the game on May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:

• Season Pass: Featuring 4 DLCs, with the first one offering placeables inspired by Arrakis' wildlife, including Shai-Hulud. The subsequent three DLCs will be released later.
• Sardaukar Bator Armor: The iconic armor of the elite Sardaukar military force that players will encounter in the game.
• One copy of the base game

The Ultimate edition builds on the Deluxe edition with additional exclusive 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 stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides in the film.
• Digital Artbook: A 50-page artbook showcasing 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!