Funcom continues to rapidly improve Dune: Awakening, with the latest patch, 1.1.0.17, making substantial changes to enhance the Deep Desert endgame experience for players. These updates come right on the heels of the studio testing expansions to the PvE zone in the Deep Desert. Initially limited to just 10% of the map, the zone now extends across the entire southern half, making it far easier for players who prefer PvE over PvP to enjoy their time in the game. 
From today, June 26, this change will be available to all players, ensuring that those who don’t want to engage in PvP can still explore and experience the game’s rich content.
Funcom’s latest patch notes confirm that Imperial Testing Stations, caves, and other similar locations within this newly expanded PvE zone are now exclusively PvE areas. As a result, players no longer need to worry about PvP while exploring these regions. This change comes after a series of player complaints about the toxic nature of the endgame, where griefing was common even after patching out the ability to squish other players with Ornithopters.
Creative director Joel Bylos emphasized that the goal was to allow PvE players to access the endgame content without being forced into PvP. The developers continue to listen to player feedback and are committed to making further adjustments in the future. In an AMA, Bylos reassured players that while the tension of PvP in the Deep Desert remains a core feature of the game, PvE players would now have more space to enjoy the experience on their terms.
The patch also includes changes to Ornithopters. Adding a rocket launcher module to your Scout Ornithopter will now reduce its top speed by 20%, while the Assault Ornithopter will see a 10% decrease in speed. These changes are meant to balance the PvP and PvE experiences and make both feel more engaging for players.
In addition to these changes, players will now be able to report inappropriate player messages directly from the text chat or via the Inspect menu, giving them more tools to maintain a healthy and enjoyable community. The developers also clarified that Control Points and Shipwrecks will remain PvP zones, with localized pockets of PvP still available within the PvE sections, much like the Shipwrecks in the Hagga Basin.
As for the success of Dune: Awakening, the game continues to thrive. Upon its launch, it quickly gained over 142,000 concurrent players on Steam and has since hit a new peak of 189,333 players. The game’s popularity has continued to soar, making it Funcom’s fastest-selling game, and it has already surpassed over 1 million players. Critics, including our own review, have given the game a solid 8/10 rating, praising its engaging mechanics and immersive world. If you’re new to Dune: Awakening, make sure to check out our Dune: Awakening guides for class information, walkthroughs, and tips on how to survive the harsh world of Arrakis.