
Dune: Awakening, the eagerly anticipated MMO based on the iconic 1965 sci-fi novel, is set to launch without the burden of monthly subscriptions. Developer Funcom has shared crucial updates about the game's full release, business model, and the various editions players can pre-order.
Dune: Awakening Set for Full Release on May 20
No Early Access and No Monthly Subscription
Dune: Awakening will hit the market on May 20 as a full release, bypassing the early access phase that many games opt for. This decision was detailed in a Steam blog post dated March 21, where Funcom also elaborated on the game's business model, system requirements, and post-launch support.
Unlike other MMOs such as Final Fantasy XIV, World of Warcraft, and EVE Online, which rely on monthly subscriptions, Dune: Awakening will not charge players a recurring fee. Instead, the game will be supported through free updates that introduce new content, features, and enhancements. Funcom, with its track record of managing live service games like Anarchy Online and Conan Exiles, assures players of long-term support and continuous updates, DLCs, and expansions post-launch.
Pre-Orders Now Open and Game Editions Detailed

Following the announcement, pre-orders for Dune: Awakening went live on March 24. The game is offered in three distinct editions: Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate. Pre-ordering any edition grants players two exclusive in-game items: the Terrarium of Muad’Dib, a detailed decoration for your base, and the Sunset Dye Global Swatch, a unique color pattern applicable to weapons, vehicles, and armor.

Pre-ordering the Deluxe or Ultimate edition provides an additional perk—a 5-day head start, allowing access to the game from May 15. The Deluxe edition includes:
- Season Pass: Access to 4 DLCs, the first of which features placeables inspired by Arrakis' wildlife, including Shai-Hulud. The remaining three will be released later.
- Sardaukar Bator Armor: The intimidating armor of the elite Sardaukar force, who hunt players in the game.
- One copy of the base game
The Ultimate edition encompasses everything in the Deluxe edition, plus:
- 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 from the 2021 film.
- Dune 2021 Film Stillsuit: The stillsuit worn by Paul Atreides in the film.
- Digital Artbook: A 50-page artbook showcasing artwork from the game's development.
- Digital Soundtrack: 90 minutes of the game's music.
For further details on Dune: Awakening's pre-order options and DLCs, please refer to our comprehensive article below!