Dune: Awakening's studio, Funcom, is gearing up for a potentially crowded launch as it approaches its large-scale beta this weekend. Here's everything you need to know about Funcom's server preparations and what fans can anticipate.

Dune: Awakening Pre-Launch Updates

Funcom’s Servers Are Prepared

As Dune: Awakening nears its release date, Funcom is reassuring fans that they are ready for a possibly packed launch in June. In a Steam post dated May 7, following the first closed beta, Funcom addressed concerns about server capacity and explained the game's large-scale multiplayer mechanics.

When starting the game, players will select a server as their home within a World that contains at least 20 servers. This setup allows players to interact with others across different servers within the same World.

Addressing concerns about server load and queues, Funcom anticipates a heavy load at launch, with some servers reaching capacity. They emphasize that "thousands of servers grouped together in hundreds of Worlds will be available at launch."

Funcom stated, "While a Hagga Basin server can support 40 players concurrently, the fluctuating population throughout the day means it can accommodate several hundred players choosing it as their home." They added that this was rigorously tested during the closed beta, and systems are in place to prevent servers from becoming overly popular and full.

While Dune: Awakening emphasizes large-scale multiplayer, it remains enjoyable for solo players. At launch, single-player and private servers won't be available 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 what fans can expect. In a post on the Dune: Awakening official website on May 8, they detailed the upcoming beta features.

To participate in the beta weekend, fans can wishlist and request access on the game's Steam page, sign up on the official website, or obtain an access code at the Global LAN party on May 10.

The large-scale beta weekend is scheduled from May 9 to May 12. Check the timetable below to find out when the stream starts in your region:

The beta will feature the first 20-25 hours of gameplay, covering early to mid-game content. Included are 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 has clarified that progress made 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 releases to follow at a later, unannounced date. Stay updated with the latest game news by checking out our article below!