Funcom, the developer behind the upcoming survival MMO Dune: Awakening, has released a first look at how base-building will work in the game. Set in the universe of Frank Herbert’s Dune series, the game will allow players to experience the harsh environment of the desert planet Arrakis as they attempt to build and maintain their home in the open world. According to Funcom, players will be able to claim a spot of land and craft their first base early on in the game, with more advanced upgrades becoming available as they progress. The game will also offer plenty of options for decorating the interior of homes, with “distinct visual styles” later becoming available.
However, life on Arrakis is no walk in the park, as deadly sandstorms and giant sandworms pose constant threats to players. In order to survive, players will need to build defenses, including shields. Funcom has emphasized that Dune: Awakening is first and foremost a survival game, and players will need to constantly be on the lookout for opportunities to harvest water, seek shelter from the sun, and collect the valuable substance known as spice in order to thrive.
Dune: Awakening will take place in an alternate timeline to that of the original novels, allowing players to team up with major characters and swear allegiance to various political factions within the Dune universe. The game will also feature a shared server where thousands of players can collaborate and compete with one another.
As for the release date of Dune: Awakening, there has been no official announcement yet. However, Funcom conducted the game’s first closed beta test in December 2023, with additional tests planned for early 2024.
In addition to the gameplay details, Dune: Awakening has garnered attention for its visual inspiration from director Denis Villeneuve’s recent Dune films. With the popularity of the Dune franchise at an all-time high, fans are eagerly anticipating the release of the game and its potential to expand the lore of the Dune universe.
Opinion: With the recent success of the Dune films, the anticipation for Dune: Awakening is at an all-time high. The incorporation of survival gameplay elements and base-building mechanics set in the Dune universe has the potential to offer an immersive experience for both fans of the novels and newcomers to the franchise.