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Dune: Awakening beta testing insights
With the highly anticipated release of Funcom’s Dune: Awakening set for June 5, players have been eagerly exploring the vast desert planet of Arrakis through the beta testing phase. Chris Livingstone from PC Gamer dedicated 25 hours to the game, emerging with a blend of excitement and concern. While the survival aspects of the game impressed him, he found certain features, particularly in the MMO domain, to be less than satisfactory.
The issue of player-made structures
One significant concern that Livingstone highlighted was the prevalence of “ugly, boxy player-made bases” cluttering the landscape. During his initial gameplay, he felt overwhelmed by the number of these makeshift structures and, after a lengthy trek, sought an unspoiled area to establish his own base. However, upon logging back in, he discovered that two large bases had sprung up just a short distance from his own.
This situation only worsened over the beta’s two-week duration, with more players erecting bases—many of which were unfinished and visually unappealing. Not only did these structures mar the aesthetic of Arrakis, but they also detracted from the immersive experience of navigating the expansive terrains, a key aspect of the Dune universe.
Community feedback and developer responses
The topic of base management was a hot topic during a recent livestream featuring Joel Bylos, the chief creative director of Dune: Awakening. He addressed the issue directly, noting that the persistence of player-created bases can lead to clutter, reminiscent of challenges faced in traditional MMOs where players typically do not leave their bases unattended for extended periods.
Bylos emphasized the importance of maintaining a tidy environment in the game, stating, “It’s encouraged to get rid of old bases, because this is one of the problems that comes with the persistence of the game.” He compared the situation to that of other MMOs, where players are less likely to leave structures in starter zones due to the potential for overcrowding.
Encouraging players to clear the clutter
As a part of the game’s introductory tutorial, players are prompted to dismantle their initial bases, with the goal of encouraging further exploration and the construction of larger, more impressive structures as they progress. Bylos urged players to consider their fellow gamers when the game officially launches, stating, “Clean up your old bases, people. Don’t leave trash on Arrakis!” This call to action highlights the collective responsibility players share in maintaining an immersive world.
The future of Dune: Awakening
As the launch date approaches, many players are anxious to see how these concerns will be addressed. Livingstone expressed skepticism about whether players will heed the call to tidy up, especially given the potential for base clutter to escalate once the servers are populated with a larger player base. He reflected on his own experience, noting, “If I got tired of seeing these ugly bases in just a few hours, how overwhelming will it be after launch?”
While the prospect of messy landscapes may pose a challenge, the excitement surrounding Dune: Awakening remains palpable among fans. With the anticipation of epic sandworm encounters and the vast, open world awaiting exploration, players are eager to dive into this new adventure, despite the potential base management issues that lie ahead.
Rich, a seasoned games journalist with over 15 years of experience, continues to bring insights and coverage of the gaming industry, focusing on emerging trends and player experiences.