Funcom recently reassured Dune: Awakening players during an AMA that they've been actively working to address PvP concerns in the Deep Desert, an area players previously criticized as toxic due to griefing incidents - even after developers removed the controversial ornithopter crushing mechanic.
In a transparent developer letter, creative director Joel Bylos emphasized their commitment: "We're dedicated to ensuring PvE-oriented players can fully experience endgame content without mandatory PvP engagement." He further explained their vision: "The Deep Desert's core concept remains unchanged - a weekly-resetting zone bursting with opportunity and danger. We envisioned players forming alliances to conquer this brutal environment together."
Bylos acknowledged that the zone's intense competitiveness was alienating PvE players. The solution? Introducing new "Partial Warfare (PvE)" zones across select Deep Desert areas, while preserving key locations like major spice fields and Landsraad control points as high-risk PvP hotspots.These changes are already being tested in remarkable ways.
The newly launched Public Test Client reveals an expanded PvE safe zone encompassing rows A-D and half of E in the Deep Desert - a dramatic shift from the current single-row implementation. This early experiment suggests significant PvP-to-PvE rebalancing may be coming.
Industry analysts note that test servers exist specifically for evaluating bold changes like these. The adjustments remain experimental, but clearly demonstrate Funcom's serious commitment to refining the endgame experience.
Dune: Awakening continues its impressive launch streak, maintaining 'Very Positive' Steam reviews since its June 10 debut. The survival MMO smashed records with 142,000 simultaneous players at launch, recently peaking at 189,333 - surpassing one million total players faster than any previous Funcom title.
Our review team awarded Dune: Awakening 8/10, praising its masterful adaptation of Herbert's universe while identifying areas for improvement: "This survival MMO brilliantly captures Dune's essence - both its strengths and limiting factors. The journey from desperate newcomer to Arrakis power player delivers near-constant satisfaction, though combat mechanics and endgame organization could use refinement."
For newcomers, we offer comprehensive guides including class breakdowns, a story walkthrough, expert trainer locations, and essential resource tips covering iron, steel, and aluminum acquisition across the harsh desert landscape.
