Funcom revealed plans for its largest beta weekend yet for “Dune: Awakening,” scheduled for May 9-12, giving players their first opportunity to experience the open-world survival game based on Frank Herbert’s science fiction masterpiece.
Unlike previous closed beta tests, this large-scale event will be free from non-disclosure agreements, allowing participants to stream gameplay and share their experiences publicly for the first time.
Players can access most of Act 1, experiencing roughly 20 hours of gameplay that showcases both the survival mechanics and cinematic storytelling that developers promise will root players “firmly in the universe of the sci-fi masterpiece.”
The Oslo-based game studio also released a new story trailer featuring the game’s narrative hook: “Find the Fremen. Wake the Sleeper”. Players begin their journey with this mandate from a Reverend Mother, starting an odyssey across the dangerous landscape of Arrakis.
Global LAN Party Broadcast to distribute beta keys
Hopeful players can secure beta access through Dune: Awakening’s Steam page by wishlisting the game and requesting access, or by watching the Global LAN Party Broadcast on May 10.
The broadcast, streaming live from both London and PAX East in Boston, will feature developer discussions and showcase content creators competing against each other in in-game challenges.
“Throughout this massive event, we will jump to many other locations around the world to check in with special guests,” Funcom stated in their announcement, though the full lineup remains to be revealed.
The company plans to distribute “tens of thousands of Beta keys” during the broadcast, which will grant immediate access to the weekend test.
PAX East attendees will have additional opportunities to meet with developers and play the game at Funcom’s booth.
A cinematic survival experience
“Dune: Awakening” aims to blend cinematic storytelling with multiplayer survival gameplay as players navigate the harsh environment of Arrakis while uncovering mysteries hidden beneath the sand.
The game promises “detailed cinematic cutscenes” and “a rich cast of characters” as players learn to survive like the native Fremen while exploring their character’s hidden past.
When it launches on June 10, players can choose between standard, Deluxe, or Ultimate editions, with the premium versions offering a five-day head start and exclusive in-game items.
The game builds on the renewed popularity of the Dune franchise following Denis Villeneuve’s critically acclaimed film adaptations.
