"Dune: Awakening Delay Extended by Three Weeks for Beta-Inspired Changes"

Dune: Awakening, the highly anticipated open-world survival MMO inspired by Frank Herbert's iconic sci-fi novels and Denis Villeneuve's films, has been pushed back to a new release date of June 10, 2025. Funcom, the game's developer, announced this delay alongside an exciting early access opportunity for eager fans. Those who opt for the Deluxe Edition or Ultimate Edition of the game will be able to dive in five days earlier, on June 5, 2025.

The delay comes as a result of valuable feedback gathered from the ongoing Persistent Closed Beta. Funcom stated that the additional time will allow their team to "cook" the game further and implement essential changes that have been identified and requested during the beta phase. This extra period will also facilitate a "large-scale beta weekend next month," giving even more players the chance to experience Dune: Awakening and provide their input.

While the delay might be disappointing for some fans eager to explore Arrakis, Funcom is keeping the community engaged with a combat livestream scheduled for today at 12pm ET/9am PT. This event will delve into the game's PvP and PvE mechanics, as well as highlight the various archetypes and skills players can expect.

IGN's hands-on preview of Dune: Awakening was filled with enthusiasm, stating, "It's easy to be skeptical about an MMO survival game set in the Dune universe, but after a few bouts of dehydration and sunstroke, the day I spent in Arrakis convinced me that Dune: Awakening is one to watch."

For those interested in learning more, be sure to check out the details on the MMO's business model and post-launch plans, as well as the in-depth gameplay trailer unveiled at Gamescom ONL last year.