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 managing server capacity at launch and what fans can anticipate.
Dune: Awakening Pre-Launch Updates
Funcom’s Servers Are Prepared
As Dune: Awakening nears its release date, developer Funcom is confidently preparing for a packed launch in June. In a detailed Steam post dated May 7, Funcom addressed key concerns following the first closed beta, particularly around server capacity and large-scale multiplayer features.
At the outset, players can select a server as their home base. These servers are part of a larger World, which consists of at least 20 servers, allowing players to interact with others across their chosen World.
However, concerns about server load and queue times have been raised by the community. Funcom anticipates high demand at launch, with the possibility of some servers reaching full capacity. They assure players that there will be "thousands of servers grouped into hundreds of Worlds available at launch."
Funcom clarified, "A Hagga Basin server can handle 40 concurrent players, but due to the natural ebb and flow of player activity throughout the day, it can support hundreds choosing it as their home server." They further explained that rigorous testing during the closed beta has led to the implementation of systems to prevent overcrowding by limiting new character creation on popular servers.
While Dune: Awakening emphasizes large-scale multiplayer, it also supports solo play. Players can explore Arrakis alone within the multiplayer environment. However, single-player and private servers won't be available at launch; these are slated 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 set to occur, and Funcom has shared detailed plans on what fans can expect. On May 8, through the Dune: Awakening official website, they outlined the features of the upcoming beta.
To participate in the beta weekend, fans can wishlist and request access on the game's Steam page, sign up via the official website, or secure an access code at the Global LAN party on May 10.
The large-scale beta weekend will take place from May 9 to May 12. Check out the schedule below to see when the stream starts in your region:
According to Funcom, the beta will feature the first 20-25 hours of gameplay, covering early to mid-game content. Players will have access to the CHOAM building set, the Hagga Basin South region, Eastern and Western Vermillius Gap regions, the Sandbike, early and mid-game combat, and parts of Act I of the story. Funcom has confirmed that any progress made during the beta weekend will not transfer to the full game.
Dune: Awakening is scheduled for release on June 10, 2025, for PC, with PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S versions to follow at a later, yet-to-be-announced date. Stay updated with the latest game news by checking out our article below!
