"Dune: Awakening Set to Launch for Thousands, Developer Announces"

As the much-anticipated release of Dune: Awakening approaches, the game's developer, Funcom, is gearing up for what they anticipate to be a crowded launch. With a large-scale beta test scheduled for this weekend, Funcom is ensuring fans are well-informed about their server capabilities and what to expect during the game's launch in June. Dive in to discover Funcom's comprehensive plans for managing server loads and the exciting features awaiting players.

Dune: Awakening Pre-Launch Updates

Funcom’s Servers Are Prepared

As Dune: Awakening nears its release date, Funcom has reassured fans through a Steam post dated May 7 that they are fully prepared for a potentially overcrowded launch. Following the insights gained from the first closed beta, Funcom detailed the game's server infrastructure and large-scale multiplayer dynamics.

Upon starting the game, players will select a server to call home, which is part of a larger "World" containing at least 20 servers. This setup allows players to interact with others across different servers within the same World.

Addressing concerns about server capacity and queues, Funcom anticipates a high load at launch with some servers reaching maximum capacity. They have emphasized that "thousands of servers grouped together in hundreds of Worlds will be available at launch," ensuring ample space for players.

Funcom elaborated on server dynamics, stating, "While a Hagga Basin server can support 40 people playing concurrently, the natural ebb and flow of populations throughout the day means it can accommodate several hundred choosing it as their home." They've rigorously tested these systems during the closed beta and have measures in place to prevent servers from becoming overcrowded by limiting character creation on popular servers.

Despite its focus on large-scale multiplayer, Dune: Awakening can also be enjoyed solo. Players can explore Arrakis independently within the multiplayer environment. However, single-player and private servers will not be available at launch but are slated for inclusion in future updates.

What To Expect During The Large-Scale Beta Weekend

Before the official launch, Dune: Awakening will host a large-scale beta weekend, providing players with a glimpse of what's to come. Funcom shared detailed information about this event in a post on the game's official website on May 8.

To participate in the beta weekend, fans can wishlist and request access on the game's Steam page, sign up on the official website, or obtain an access code during the Global LAN party on May 10.

The beta weekend is scheduled from May 9 to May 12. Check the timetable below to see when the stream starts in your region:

During the beta, players will experience the first 20-25 hours of gameplay, covering early to mid-game content. Key features include the CHOAM building set, the Hagga Basin South region, Eastern and Western Vermillius Gap Region, access to the Sandbike, early and mid-game combat, and parts of Act I of the story. Funcom has confirmed that progress made during the beta weekend will not carry over to the full game.

Dune: Awakening is set to launch on June 10, 2025, for PC, with releases for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S to follow at a later, yet-to-be-announced date. Stay updated with the latest news on the game by checking out our article below!