"Dune: Awakening Set to Launch for Thousands"

Dune: Awakening’s developer, Funcom, is gearing up for a potentially crowded launch while preparing for its large-scale beta this weekend. Dive into the details to discover Funcom's plans for server management at launch and what fans can anticipate.

Dune: Awakening Pre-Launch Updates

Funcom’s Servers Are Prepared

As Dune: Awakening approaches its release, Funcom is reassuring fans that they are ready for a potentially overcrowded launch in June. In a Steam post dated May 7, following the first closed beta, Funcom addressed key questions about server capacity and large-scale multiplayer mechanics.

At the game's outset, players will select a server as their home base. These servers are part of a broader World, comprising at least 20 servers, enabling interaction with players across different servers within the same World.

However, concerns have been raised about server load and queue times. Funcom anticipates a significant load at launch, with some servers potentially reaching capacity. They emphasize that "thousands of servers grouped together in hundreds of Worlds will be available at launch."

Funcom clarified, "While a Hagga Basin server can support 40 concurrent players, the natural ebb and flow of player activity throughout the day allows it to accommodate several hundred choosing that server as their home." The studio confirmed rigorous testing during the closed beta and has implemented systems to limit character creation on overly popular servers, reducing the likelihood of servers becoming full.

Dune: Awakening emphasizes large-scale multiplayer, yet it remains enjoyable for solo players. While the game launches without single-player or private server options, these features are slated for post-launch updates.

What To Expect During The Large-Scale Beta Weekend

Before the official release, Funcom is hosting a large-scale beta weekend, providing more insight into what participants can expect. On May 8, a post on the Dune: Awakening official website outlined the features of this upcoming beta.

Access to the beta weekend is available by wishlisting and requesting access on the game’s Steam page, signing up on the official website, or obtaining an access code at the Global LAN party on May 10.

The large-scale beta weekend will occur from May 9 to May 12. Below is a timetable to help you determine when the stream starts in your region:

According to Funcom, the beta will feature the first 20-25 hours of gameplay, covering early to mid-game content. Players can explore the CHOAM building set, the Hagga Basin South region, Eastern and Western Vermillius Gap Region, ride the Sandbike, engage in early and mid-game combat, and experience parts of Act I of the story. Importantly, Funcom noted that progress made during the beta weekend will not transfer to the full game.

Dune: Awakening is scheduled for release on June 10, 2025, for PC, with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S releases planned for a later, yet-to-be-announced date. Stay informed with the latest updates by checking out our article below!