In its first developer Q&A following Dune: Awakening's June 10 launch, Funcom addressed upcoming changes to its survival MMO, especially focusing on endgame improvements.
The studio confirmed they're "actively developing solutions" to enhance Deep Desert PvP, an area criticized by players for toxic griefing behaviors. While they've already removed the problematic ornithopter crushing mechanic, game director Viljar Sommerbakk shared plans for further aircraft adjustments - including rocket attachments that would "limit maneuverability and top speed."
Developers are also testing heat cost increases for Scout Ornithopter rockets, maintaining their aerial threat capability while ensuring Assault variants remain superior in direct combat.
"We're implementing multiple changes regarding respawn mechanics and revival systems," creative director Joel Bylos noted. "The Landsraad faction system will determine full-loot policies, desert control points remain unchanged, and we're monitoring gameplay to implement targeted PvP enhancements without compromising the core experience."
Lead producer Ole Andreas Hayley clarified: "The Deep Desert will maintain its open PvP ruleset, though we're evaluating faction-based conflict zones elsewhere."
"Strategic gear choices should carry meaningful consequences," Sommerbakk emphasized. "We're optimizing combat responsiveness by fixing movement desyncs, ability activation consistency, and rubber-banding issues to create fairer engagements."
Quality-of-life updates include customizable storage/vehicle naming and bulk transfer options for resources. Future PvE content will introduce dungeon bosses as developers expand the endgame ecosystem.
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Hayley hinted at potential future map expansions: "Arrakis offers countless environments to explore, and we're excited to build upon our existing foundation."
The development team reaffirmed their commitment to visual continuity between NPCs and players, while animations and dialogue will remain unskippable to preserve narrative immersion.
Our review awarded Dune: Awakening 8/10, praising its masterful adaptation of Herbert's universe and rewarding survival progression, despite combat inconsistencies and technical issues needing refinement.
The MMO has achieved strong reception since launch, peaking at 189,333 concurrent Steam players. Newcomers can consult our comprehensive guides covering character classes, essential resources like iron and aluminum, and our evolving walkthrough.
