Overview

Dune: Awakening, one of 2025’s highly anticipated MMOs developed by Funcom, takes a unique approach to its narrative by setting its survival gameplay in an alternate version of Arrakis, one without the character Paul Atreides.

Gameplay Insights

Recently, Josh Wolens had the opportunity to test the game and reported an intriguing fusion of genres that attempts to pay homage to Frank Herbert’s original work:

“We’re making a survival game, but we’re making a Dune game, right? One of the design models we have is: make the game fit Dune, don’t make Dune fit the game.”
Translation: “We aim to ensure that the game’s design aligns with Dune’s themes rather than forcing the Dune narrative into a generic format.”

Aesthetic Inspirations

While the film adaptations of Dune wield significant influence over the game’s design, particularly that of Denis Villeneuve, the legacy of David Lynch’s film has also stirred interest amongst fans:

Despite his death, Lynch’s eccentric interpretations—complete with iconic imagery and unusual elements—remain a point of discussion. However, Ryborg disclosed:

“Not a whole lot, I’m afraid… Legendary has been quite clear that like the vision for the IP right now is the Villeneuve vision.”
Translation: “The current authoritative vision for Dune is that of Villeneuve, thus we are adhering closely to his interpretation.”

Anticipating Future Content

Future players might find scattered nods to Lynch’s adaptations, but full integration of his themes is not part of this new iteration. As Funcom prepares for the release, excitement builds for what Dune: Awakening will ultimately deliver, promising a complex and layered experience reflective of the original series’ depth.

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