Dune: Awakening has made a remarkable entrance into the gaming world, attracting an impressive 93,634 concurrent players on Steam during its early access launch. Scheduled for its official release on June 10, the game is expected to see an even larger influx of players. Despite facing some technical issues, Funcom is committed to improving the gaming experience through features like private servers and Twitch drops.
This survival MMO has become highly awaited since its announcement nearly three years ago, garnering attention from fans of Frank Herbert’s Dune universe. Instead of following the events of the original books, the game offers an alternate timeline. Players will navigate the challenging desert environment of Arrakis, focusing on the mysterious disappearance of the Fremen.
Initially set for release on May 20, 2025, the launch was postponed to June 10 to accommodate one final beta testing phase. For those interested in purchasing, a guide containing details about the various editions of Dune: Awakening will help players determine which version is best for them. The game’s early access period has been particularly successful, with SteamDB reporting a peak of 93,634 concurrent players just hours after launch.
It’s noteworthy that this early access was limited to purchasers of the $70 Deluxe Edition or the $90 Ultimate Edition. With the full release, including the more affordable $50 Base Edition, a significant surge in player numbers is anticipated. Currently, Dune: Awakening enjoys a “Mostly Positive” rating on Steam, with about 76% of nearly 1,900 reviews favorably received.
However, players have reported some crashes and performance problems, which are active topics in community discussions. Funcom is enhancing the game through features like private servers and a collaboration with Twitch that offers exclusive rewards. From June 5 to June 24, 2025, players can earn three unique Observer building items to aid in base construction.