Dune: Awakening Opens Beta to Pre-Order Players After Initial Backlash
Dune: Awakening, the ambitious survival MMO set in the immersive Dune universe, has had a dynamic week, marked by a beta launch and a swift course correction. Originally, beta access was limited to select players who secured a key, leaving many who pre-ordered the game on the sidelines. However, Funcom, the game's developer, listened to community feedback and reversed its decision, opening the beta to anyone who pre-orders the game.
The initial limitation caused confusion and frustration, as pre-order access is typically a standard perk. As one report points out, "why weren't players who preordered the $50 game on Steam automatically included in the beta weekend in the first place?" This sentiment echoed across the Dune fanbase, prompting Funcom to respond rapidly.
"Everyone who has pre-ordered Dune: Awakening can now also access the Beta Weekend!" Funcom announced on social media. "We heard your feedback on this. If you already own or decide to pre-order any of the editions this weekend, you should now also see a Beta Weekend product in your Steam library."
The turnaround, while welcomed, has raised questions about the distribution of beta keys. Many players who pre-ordered the game had already claimed keys through giveaways, potentially wasting resources that could have benefited others who didn't pre-order.
Funcom has also clarified Dune: Awakening's structure, emphasizing its blend of survival mechanics and MMORPG elements. They stated that the game is a survival game at heart but "on an MMORPG scale, with social, trading, and larger story features." The map structure is divided into key areas, each with distinct gameplay elements. The Hagga Basin acts as a main homeland where players can interact and build, while PvP engagements take place in the expansive and seamless Deep Desert.
Funcom also says there will be “thousands of servers”, queues and filters in place to manage and limit the amount of players, and private servers for the ones who want to not be involved in the process.
Dune: Awakening is scheduled to launch on PC on June 10, 2025, after a recent delay. With the beta weekend underway, players now have the chance to experience the vast world of Arrakis and provide valuable feedback as Funcom gears up for the highly anticipated release.
What are your thoughts on Funcom's beta decision? Are you excited to explore the world of Dune: Awakening? Share your opinions in the comments below!
