"Dune: Awakening Set to Launch for Thousands"

Dune: Awakening's studio is gearing up for a potentially crowded launch while preparing for its large-scale beta this weekend. Here's what you need to know about Funcom’s server plans and what fans can anticipate.

Dune: Awakening Pre-Launch Updates

Funcom’s Servers Are Prepared

As Dune: Awakening approaches its release, Funcom is confident in handling a possible overcrowded launch in June. In a Steam post dated May 7, Funcom addressed concerns raised after the first closed beta, detailing the game’s server infrastructure and large-scale multiplayer features.

Upon starting the game, players will select a server within a World, which contains at least 20 servers. This setup allows interaction with players across different servers within the same World.

Amidst concerns about server capacity and queues, Funcom anticipates a high server load at launch, with some servers reaching full capacity. They assure that there will be "thousands of servers grouped into hundreds of Worlds available at launch."

Funcom explained, "While a Hagga Basin server can handle 40 concurrent players, daily population fluctuations mean it can support hundreds choosing it as their home. We've rigorously tested this during the closed beta and have systems to prevent too many characters being created on overly popular servers, reducing the risk of full servers."

Dune: Awakening emphasizes large-scale multiplayer, yet it remains enjoyable for solo players. At launch, single-player and private servers won't be available but will be added in post-launch updates.

What To Expect During The Large-Scale Beta Weekend

Before the official launch, the large-scale beta weekend is set to provide a taste of what's to come. In a post on the Dune: Awakening official website dated May 8, Funcom outlined what participants can expect.

To join the beta weekend, wishlist and request access on the game’s Steam page, sign up on the official website, or secure an access code during the Global LAN party on May 10.

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

The beta includes the first 20-25 hours of gameplay, covering early to mid-game content. 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 clarified that progress made during the beta won't carry over 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 to follow at a later, unannounced date. Stay updated with the latest news by checking out our article below!