Dune: Awakening Reveals Release and Pre-Loading Times

Dune: Awakening launches head start on June 5th for Deluxe and Ultimate edition owners, with official release on June 10th. The game unlocks at 16:00 CEST on Steam, pre-loading available 24 hours before head start. Most servers will launch with the official release on June 10th for incoming players.

Less Than Two Weeks to Launch! ⏰

We're less than two weeks away from the launch of Dune: Awakening (and head start is even closer!). It's time to grab your Fremkit, put on your stillsuit, and start getting ready.

What is head start and why should I pre-order? Head start allows you to play five days earlier than other players, meaning more time to explore Arrakis, build your base, and gain an advantage before the official launch.

The first thing you need to know is exactly when you can start playing.

Release Dates and Head Start 📅

Head Start - June 5th, 2025

Dune: Awakening will first be available in head start on June 5th for those who have pre-ordered either the Deluxe or Ultimate Edition. Pre-ordering either edition, or the base edition, will also unlock the Terrarium of Muad'Dib pre-order reward.

Official Launch - June 10th, 2025

Official launch is June 10th, at which point pre-orders (and the Terrarium of Muad'Dib reward) will no longer be available for purchase. The base, Deluxe, and Ultimate Editions will be available for regular purchase from that point onwards.

Unlock Times:

The game will unlock for play on Steam at 16:00 CEST / 10am EDT, both on June 5th and June 10th. For other regions, a map with select locations has been provided to help you figure out when it will be available in your area.

💡 Pro tip: If you want to play in head start, you must pre-order the Deluxe or Ultimate edition - the base edition doesn't grant head start access, even though you get the pre-order reward.

Pre-Loading and Preparation 📥

Pre-load will be available to all pre-order owners 24 hours before head start on June 4th. Please be aware that pre-ordering the base edition does not grant head start access.

Key Download Information:

✓ Pre-loading - June 4th for all pre-orders
✓ Head start access - Deluxe and Ultimate editions only
✓ Terrarium of Muad'Dib - all pre-orders
✓ Steam unlock - 16:00 CEST / 10:00 EDT

Servers and Worlds 🌍

Multiple worlds/servers will be available at head start, but the majority will go live with launch on June 10th as more players come in.

Server Strategy:

• Head start servers - limited number for early players
• Launch servers - majority of new worlds on June 10th
• Server choice - you can join head start servers even at official launch

If you're not joining us at head start, you will find plenty of fresh, new worlds/servers to join on June 10th. You can still choose a head start world/server at launch if you prefer, e.g., if you want to join friends playing there.

System Requirements and Preparation 💻

Remember to check out the system requirements that were shared a while back, to make sure your hardware is good and ready for Arrakis.

Recommended Preparation Steps:

1. Check system requirements for optimal performance
2. Free up disk space for game installation
3. Update graphics drivers for the best experience
4. Prepare your friends for cooperative gameplay

Upcoming Livestream - May 28th 🎥

Don't miss out on the livestream we're hosting on May 28th where we will show and talk about our mid-to-endgame content, giving you a glimpse of what lies beyond what many of you played in our recent large-scale Beta Weekend.

What to Expect from the Livestream:

✓ Mid-game mechanics - advanced systems and features
✓ Endgame content - long-term goals and activities
✓ New information - content that wasn't in the beta
✓ Developer insights - behind-the-scenes development look

For more information about where and when to tune in, check out the announcement that was posted last week.

Editions and Their Contents 💎

Base Edition

✓ Full Dune: Awakening game
✓ Terrarium of Muad'Dib (pre-order only)
❌ No head start access

Deluxe Edition

✓ Everything from base edition
✓ Head start access (June 5th)
✓ Exclusive content and bonuses
✓ Pre-loading (June 4th)

Ultimate Edition

✓ Everything from Deluxe edition
✓ Premium content and add-ons
✓ Most bonuses and exclusives
✓ Complete experience for biggest fans

Time Zones and Global Launch 🗺️

Dune: Awakening launches globally at the same time:

• CEST (Central Europe): 16:00
• EDT (Eastern US): 10:00
• PDT (Western US): 07:00
• JST (Japan): 23:00
• AEST (Australia): 00:00 (next day)

Action Items Before Launch:

1. Check your time zone for exact launch time
2. Prepare a day off for head start or launch day
3. Coordinate with friends about server selection
4. Watch the livestream on May 28th for more information

FAQ

Q: Can I upgrade my pre-order from base to Deluxe edition?
A: Yes, it's usually possible to upgrade pre-orders through Steam or other platforms before launch.

Q: What if I miss head start, can I still buy the Deluxe edition?
A: No, pre-orders end on June 10th at official launch. After that, only regular editions will be available.

Q: Will head start servers be overcrowded?
A: Funcom has prepared a limited number of servers for head start, but most new servers will launch on June 10th.

Q: Can I play with friends who don't have head start?
A: No, you'll have to wait until June 10th when they join, or they must also buy the Deluxe/Ultimate edition.

Q: Is the Terrarium of Muad'Dib something important?
A: It's a cosmetic pre-order reward - not necessary for gameplay, but it's a unique bonus for pre-orders.

Related Articles:

• Dune: Awakening - Complete Leveling guide
• Most Efficient Water Management in Dune: Awakening
• Hidden Treasures of Arrakis - Resource Guide