Everything you need to know about surviving — and thriving — on the desert planet

Ahead of its highly anticipated console release, Funcom has dropped a brand-new overview video titled “What Is Dune: Awakening?” — designed to walk newcomers through exactly what this open-world survival experience is all about, from the harsh sands of Arrakis to the politics of the spice trade.

The big picture: What is Dune: Awakening?

Set on the legendary desert planet Arrakis, Dune: Awakening blends open-world survival, RPG progression, and cinematic storytelling inspired by Frank Herbert’s novels and Denis Villeneuve’s blockbuster films. You’ll start with nothing but the clothes on your back and work your way up: harvesting resources, building shelters, crafting gear, flying ornithopters, and navigating the deadly politics of the Imperium. And yes — the sandworm always comes.

The new introductory video distils the core experience: what you’ll do, how survival works, the difference between single-player and multiplayer, and why Arrakis is as beautiful as it is brutal. It’s the perfect starting point if you’ve been curious but haven’t dived in yet.

Console launch details — mark your calendars

• PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X|S Release Date: 22 September 2026
• Early Access: Deluxe and Ultimate Edition owners get 5 days early access, starting 17 September
• Editions: Standard (£49.99), Deluxe (£69.99), Ultimate (£89.99)
• Also on: Xbox Game Pass at launch
• Cross-play: Confirmed for post-launch

What makes this version special?

This isn’t just a port — it’s the definitive edition of the game. Console players get:

• ? Full single-player campaign with scalable difficulty and customizable settings
• ? The complete story, including the dramatic conclusion
• A full year of PC updates and improvements
• New Filmic Archive DLC with iconic looks from the Dune films
• Refreshed controls, Quality/Performance graphics modes, and a tuned interface

From surviving sandstorms to harvesting spice, building your base, and exploring caves and cities across the dunes — everything is ready for a fresh wave of players.

Ready to journey to Arrakis?

Whether you’re a lifelong Dune fan or just looking for your next open-world obsession, “What Is Dune: Awakening?” lays out the adventure clearly — and beautifully — ahead of launch. The spice awaits on 22 September.

Find out more here

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