Dune: Awakening's studio is gearing up for a potentially crowded launch while preparing for its large-scale beta this weekend. Dive in 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 nears its release, developer Funcom reassures fans that they're ready for a possible overcrowded launch in June. In a Steam post dated May 7, Funcom addressed pressing questions post the first closed beta about server capacity and explained the game’s server and large-scale multiplayer mechanics.
At the game's outset, players can select a server to call home. These servers are part of a World, comprising at least 20 servers, allowing players to interact with others across their World.
However, concerns about server load and queues have been voiced by fans. Funcom anticipates a heavy load at launch, with some servers possibly reaching capacity. They assure that "thousands of servers will be grouped into hundreds of Worlds available at launch."
"What’s crucial is that while a Hagga Basin server can support 40 players concurrently, the natural ebb and flow of player activity means it can accommodate several hundred choosing it as their home," Funcom stated. "This was thoroughly tested during the closed beta, and we have systems in place to limit character creation on overly popular servers, reducing the chance of them becoming full."
Dune: Awakening emphasizes large-scale multiplayer mechanics but remains enjoyable solo. Players can explore Arrakis alone, even in a multiplayer setting. Single-player and private servers won't be available at launch but are planned for post-launch updates.
What To Expect During The Large-Scale Beta Weekend
Before the official launch, the game's large-scale beta weekend is approaching, and Funcom has shared details about what fans can expect. In a post on the Dune: Awakening official website dated May 8, they outlined the features of the upcoming beta.
Access to the beta weekend can be gained by wishlisting and requesting access on the game's Steam page, signing up on the official website, or receiving an access code during the Global LAN party on May 10.
The large-scale beta weekend will take place from May 9 to May 12. Below is the schedule to find out when the stream starts in your region:
According to their post, the beta will feature the first 20-25 hours of gameplay, covering early to mid-game. Other features include the CHOAM building set, the Hagga Basin South region, Eastern and Western Vermillius Gap Region, access to the Sandbike, early and early mid-game combat, and parts of Act I of the story. Funcom also clarified that player progress during the beta weekend will not carry over to the full game.
Dune: Awakening is slated for release on June 10, 2025, for PC, with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S versions to follow at a later, unannounced date. Stay updated with the latest on the game by checking out our article below!
