Funcom is shifting Dune: Awakening toward PvE—PvP will remain, but for those who enjoy risk.
The developers at Funcom seem to have carefully studied the statistics. And the conclusion is disappointing for fans of hardcore skirmishes: 80% of Dune: Awakening players prefer to avoid direct combat. Therefore, the studio has announced a major change in direction—the project will now focus on PvE.
The main change concerns the Deep Desert. It will be divided into two separate maps: one for a more relaxed experience (PvE), and the other for those who still want to test their nerves (PvP). Moreover, PvP will be completely optional. If you want action, welcome to the dangerous territories. But be warned: resource production there is 2.5 times higher. A fair price for the risk.
The Hagga region, however, will lose its PvP zones altogether in the future. There, the developers will focus on repeatable missions and the political intrigues of the Landsraad—the very mechanics where players bargain, plot, and share power. Sounds like Dune, but without the sand in its eyes.
And a nice bonus for those who want complete control: Funcom will add the ability to run your own servers. Settings range from resource collection speed to item durability. You can make Arrakis as harsh as in the books, or, conversely, a resort. The choice is yours.
