Funcom has launched a major Dune: Awakening update alongside the start of Head Start access on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, adding a full single-player mode, extensive gameplay customization, and the conclusion to Book One of its story.
Deluxe and Ultimate Edition owners can begin playing the console version now, while the general PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S release arrives September 22.
The Entire Game Can Now Be Played Solo
The biggest addition is a complete single-player mode.
Funcom says players can now play the entire game, including all content and features, solo. PvP is also completely optional, letting players stick with PvE throughout the game.
The Deep Desert endgame now offers separate PvE and PvP instances, with the PvP version providing increased risks and rewards.
Customize How You Play
The update adds settings to adjust harvesting rates, experience gain, death penalties, and other gameplay elements.
Funcom has also reduced several penalties that previously affected progression. Players can save bases, recover vehicles, avoid taxes, and face a reduced penalty upon death.
The endgame has been rebuilt around missions and progression through the Atreides or Harkonnen ranks. Augmentations and Specializations add further progression options, while new maps, dungeons, weapons, and dynamic encounters have been introduced.
Combat has also received additional changes, with Funcom pointing to improvements to action mechanics and melee fighting.
Book One Gets Its Conclusion
The update adds several hours of story content that completes Book One of Dune: Awakening.
Console players receive this material at launch alongside the updates and additions introduced since the PC version debuted in June 2025.
Funcom says console-focused optimization has also improved performance across the game.
Console Release Arrives September 22
Dune: Awakening is currently available through Head Start for Deluxe and Ultimate Edition owners on PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
The general console release arrives September 22, with Xbox Game Pass availability beginning the same day. The game supports Xbox Play Anywhere across Xbox consoles, Windows PC, ROG Xbox Ally, and Xbox Cloud Gaming. Cross-play is planned for a later update.
Performance and Quality modes are available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 5 Pro, and Xbox Series X. Performance targets 60fps at dynamic 4K, while Quality targets 30fps at dynamic 4K.
The PC version is also 50% off on Steam through October 8.
A physical PlayStation 5 edition is available now in several regions, with the Japanese release scheduled for October 29.
