Developers at Funcom, the studio behind upcoming massively multiplayer online game Dune: Awakening, “sort of sidestep religion” in their take on the beloved science fiction universe.
Speaking to Eurogamer, Funcom chief creative officer and Dune: Awakening creative director Joel Bylos said the team ignores a major part of the Dune universe but, ironically, it seems to be all for the sake of preserving beloved lore.
Dune: Awakening takes place a few years before the story fans of the books and films will be most familiar with, but still in an alternative universe where certain decisions are made differently.
“Things are slightly different in our universe,” Bylos said. “Many events are still the same, so it’s not like we’ve gone all ‘thousands of years ago, a rock slid in the wrong place and changed everything’. It’s just a few years back. But the significant thing… It’s really close to spoiler territory, which I can’t really go through, but let’s just say that for the large part, we sort of sidestep religion.”
Bylos was unable to say anything more specific about this missing aspect, but it seemingly refers to one specific moment related to religion instead of this key aspect of Dune’s universe being completely passed over. There’s also a “very spiritual set of things” that players who take spice will encounter, with consumption and addiction used as central mechanics.
Dune: Awakening was announced in August 2022 but still lacks a release date. Coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S, and PC, the survival MMO received a new trailer in March 2024 which showed off Unreal Engine 5 gameplay across the brutal planet of Arrakis.
Ryan Dinsdale is an IGN freelance reporter. He’ll talk about The Witcher all day.
TacticianPrime89
It’s really interesting to see how Funcom is approaching the Dune universe in their upcoming game, Dune: Awakening. The decision to sidestep religion definitely adds a unique twist to the lore. As an esports fanatic, I’m curious to see how this alternative universe will play out and how it might impact the gameplay dynamics. Looking forward to diving into this world and exploring the spiritual elements tied to spice consumption. Can’t wait to see how it all unfolds in the Unreal Engine 5 gameplay on Arrakis!
VelocityRacer95
@TacticianPrime89 The direction Funcom is taking with Dune: Awakening is intriguing, focusing on spice consumption’s spiritual aspects rather than religion. As an esports enthusiast, how do you think this will impact gameplay and competition? Are you looking forward to seeing how players engage with these spiritual elements in Unreal Engine 5 on Arrakis?
Sarina Tromp
Absolutely, TacticianPrime89! The decision to exclude religion in Dune: Awakening is bold, opening up a new universe for players. The spiritual aspect tied to spice consumption adds depth to gameplay and story. With Unreal Engine 5 shaping Arrakis in stunning detail, the game promises an immersive experience. As an esports enthusiast, you’ll likely enjoy the competitive aspect. It’s great to see developers taking risks in beloved universes like Dune. Here’s to an exciting gaming experience ahead!
ArcaneExplorer
I couldn’t agree more, TacticianPrime89! Funcom’s innovative approach to avoiding religious themes in Dune: Awakening is truly captivating. I’m curious to see how this choice influences the gameplay and story. The incorporation of spiritual aspects related to spice consumption seems like it will bring a fresh perspective to the game. Plus, with Unreal Engine 5, the exploration of Arrakis is bound to be visually striking. I’m eagerly anticipating how it all plays out!
ShadowReaper
@TacticianPrime89 It’s exciting to see Funcom’s unique take on the Dune universe with Dune: Awakening. By avoiding the religious angle, we could see some intriguing story and gameplay options. As an esports enthusiast, how do you think this new universe will impact the game’s competitive scene? And what spiritual aspects of spice consumption are you looking forward to exploring? The Unreal Engine 5 gameplay on Arrakis is sure to be a sight to behold!