Dune: Awakening will change its map every week thanks to rogue sandstorms

Dune: Part Two, the long-awaited sequel to the 2021 Oscar-winning hit Dune, has finally been released and is having a smash opening weekend at the box office. For those who are experiencing Dune for the first time in theaters, the film ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, and longtime fans of the story will be left eagerly awaiting the adventure’s end. Whichever camp you fall into, you’ll surely be left wanting more — and thankfully, everyone is getting more today with a new look at the upcoming survival MMO Dune: Awakening.

First announced at Gamescom 2022, Dune: Awakening is being developed by Funcom, the Norwegian studio behind real-time strategy gem Dune: Spice Wars, survival MMO Conan Exiles, and rhythm-shooter Metal: Hellsinger. We haven’t seen anything but concept art until this new trailer.

Digital Trends learned more about the cryptic project ahead of its new trailer reveal, getting insight from Funcom Creative Director Joel Bylos. Adapting a film based on a book with such deep lore was quite a challenge, according to the development team, but their primary goal at all times was to portray the immensity of Arrakis. Each player will feel very small in this world, as they should.

• Dune Awakening is an open-world survival MMO set on Arrakis

Surviving Arrakis

“Arrakis is a test, is what the Fremen say,” Joel Bylos explains in a new recorded Q&A about the upcoming game. “And the player comes into the very heart of that test immediately in Dune: Awakening.”

Players will start their experience on Arrakis alone in the desert, scavenging for equipment, shade from the blistering sun, and, most importantly, water. Water can be found by consuming scarce plant fibers or, if you find a stillsuit, by killing other players and converting their blood into water. Harsh, but necessary for survival. But even if you best your enemies and find yourself well-equipped and hydrated, you still might be eaten by a massive sandworm. They are always lurking beneath the surface.

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