Dune: Awakening Showcases Ambitious Base Building System Ahead of June Launch

Funcom has unveiled a new trailer for Dune: Awakening, offering an in-depth look at the game’s expansive base-building system—an evolution of the mechanics previously seen in Conan Exiles. The trailer highlights how survival, engineering, and faction allegiance come together to form a core part of the sandbox MMO experience set on the harsh desert planet of Arrakis.

In Dune: Awakening, base building is more than just placing walls. The game introduces mechanics where players must construct protective shields using CHOAM engineering to withstand deadly sandstorms. Without this advanced infrastructure, even the strongest structures will succumb to the elements over time.

Players can build and expand their bases solo or cooperatively using Celo projections, a feature that simplifies group construction. Bases also reflect a player’s chosen allegiance to one of the Great Houses. In the trailer, Funcom emphasizes siding with House Atreides, which unlocks access to unique architectural styles and faction-specific technologies, including a customizable ground vehicle.

Once players have constructed key components, they can assemble specialized vehicles, add performance-enhancing modules, and tailor appearances to suit their playstyle. However, building and maintaining these structures isn’t without cost—large-scale bases will be subject to taxation from the Emperor.

One of the most exciting features of the base-building system is blueprint sharing. Completed structures can be saved as blueprints, which can then be traded on the in-game Exchange. Any player holding a blueprint can instantly project and recreate the original base, opening up possibilities for community-driven design and commerce.

“You will construct grand bases. And in Dune: Awakening, you will have the option to share them with others if you choose,” the narrator declares, emphasizing the scale and creativity offered in the system.

For players looking to dive even deeper, Funcom hosted a 2+ hour developer livestream, covering additional details about crafting, base customization, and cooperative gameplay: Watch the developer stream here

Release & Beta Schedule

Dune: Awakening will officially launch on June 10, 2024, for PC following a slight delay. Players will have the chance to explore the world early during the large-scale beta test, scheduled for May 9 to May 12. With its mix of survival mechanics, modular design, and social features, Dune: Awakening is shaping up to offer one of the most immersive open-world building systems in recent memory—designed for both hardcore survival players and Dune fans alike.

Will you pledge allegiance to the Atreides and build your empire on Arrakis? Let us know your plans for launch day in the comments.