Dune Awakening has entered Head Start on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with Deluxe and Ultimate Edition owners now able to play ahead of the full console release on September 22. Funcom has also launched a major PC update introducing a full single player mode, additional story content and extensive gameplay customisation.
The new update includes the complete game and its content in single player, allowing players to experience the full game without multiplayer requirements. Players can also adjust settings such as harvesting rates, experience gain and death penalties to tailor the experience to their preferences.
The update also adds several hours of story content, bringing Book One of Dune Awakening to its conclusion. Funcom has additionally made numerous performance and gameplay improvements following the game’s PC launch last year.
Among the broader changes introduced over the past 15 months are an optional approach to PvP, allowing the entire game to be played through PvE. The Deep Desert now has separate PvE and PvP instances, with the PvP version offering greater risks and rewards.
Other changes include reduced death penalties, the ability to save bases and recover vehicles, and the removal of taxes. Funcom has also rebuilt the endgame around missions and progression through the Atreides or Harkonnen ranks.
The update further adds new maps, dungeons, weapons and dynamic encounters, alongside Augmentations and Specializations progression systems. Combat has also been refined, particularly melee gameplay, while console-focused optimisation has improved performance.
Dune Awakening is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro and Xbox Series X|S, as well as Windows Store. The Xbox version supports Xbox Play Anywhere, allowing progression to carry between Xbox consoles, Windows PC, ROG Xbox Ally and Xbox Cloud Gaming. Cross-play is planned for a post-launch update.
On PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro and Xbox Series X, the game offers Performance and Quality modes. Performance targets 60fps with Dynamic 4K, while Quality targets 30fps with Dynamic 4K, with PlayStation 5 Pro and Xbox Series X receiving higher native resolution and enhanced visuals in Quality Mode.
PC players can also purchase Dune Awakening at a 50% discount on Steam until October 8. The game will join Xbox Game Pass on September 22, while subscribers can purchase the Deluxe or Ultimate Edition at 20% off to gain earlier access.
