Funcom has revealed the next major chapter for its open-world survival crafting MMO, Dune: Awakening, during its Into the Infinite showcase at Gamescom 2025. Fans of Arrakis won’t have long to wait—on September 10, 2025, the game will receive its first free major content update (Chapter 2), alongside the release of a new story-driven DLC, The Lost Harvest. To mark the occasion, Funcom has also launched a Free Trial running throughout Gamescom from August 20–24, 2025, giving newcomers a chance to experience life on Arrakis for 10 hours at no cost.
Chapter 2: The Free Major Update
Chapter 2 picks up right after the shocking cliffhanger that concluded Dune: Awakening’s base storyline. Players will encounter new and returning characters, uncover hidden truths about the Imperium, and explore previously unseen locations on Arrakis.
The update also expands gameplay features with:
- New contracts and dynamic encounters
- Fresh world activities and items
- Character customization upgrades, including new hairstyles
- A long-requested character re-customization feature for existing characters
This free update marks the beginning of Funcom’s post-launch storytelling approach, weaving deeper narratives into Arrakis while expanding player options.
The Lost Harvest DLC ($12.99)
Launching alongside Chapter 2 is the premium DLC, The Lost Harvest, priced at $12.99 (included in the $24.99 Season Pass, or bundled with Deluxe and Ultimate Editions).
This DLC introduces a standalone storyline, centered around the mysterious crash of a Miner’s Guild spice harvester. Players must track down its secret cargo—a discovery that could change the future of Arrakis forever.
In addition to the new questline, the DLC also brings:
- The first-ever cosmetic vehicle, the Treadwheel, complete with unique animations
- A Dune Man building set with new decorations
- Armor and weapon cosmetics
- New themed crafting options
While purely cosmetic, these additions enhance immersion and creativity without affecting gameplay balance.
Free Trial: Play for 10 Hours Until August 24
From now until August 24, 2025, players can download the Dune: Awakening Free Trial on Steam. The trial grants full access to the Hagga Basin map for up to 10 hours of playtime.
Key details:
- Trial players will encounter others exploring Arrakis, though matchmaking is limited to fellow trial participants.
- Progress and inventory carry over if you purchase the full game after the trial ends.
It’s the perfect chance for newcomers to experience the vast deserts of Arrakis before Chapter 2 drops.
Soundtrack Vinyl Pre-Orders Open
Funcom also announced that the Dune: Awakening soundtrack by Knut Avenstroup Haugen is now available for vinyl pre-order. Recorded at London’s iconic AIR Studios Lyndhurst Hall, the music captures the sweeping, otherworldly atmosphere of Arrakis.
Dune: Awakening – The Future of Arrakis
Developed by Funcom and set in the legendary universe created by Frank Herbert and reimagined by Denis Villeneuve’s blockbuster films, Dune: Awakening combines large-scale multiplayer survival with narrative-driven storytelling. The game is available now on Steam for $49.99 / €49.99.
With Chapter 2, The Lost Harvest DLC, and a Free Trial all dropping around Gamescom, the future of Arrakis is looking bigger—and deadlier—than ever.
