Dune: Awakening Developers Explain Sandworm Behavior

In Dune: Awakening, sandworms will embody a natural force rather than being tools that players can summon at their convenience. Unlike the original novels by Frank Herbert, where characters could attract worms using a thumper, this feature will not be included in the game. The developers have designed sandworms as NPCs with predefined patrol routes, schedules, and behaviors integrated into the game's engine. This means players cannot strategically summon a sandworm near an enemy base to disrupt their opponents. However, if a sandworm is already in the vicinity, players might be able to draw its attention by moving actively across the sand or using a thumper. Even then, there's no assurance that a sandworm will appear in the area.

Image: steamcommunity.com

Riding sandworms, a hallmark of the Freman culture as depicted in Herbert's books and the popular Dune cinematic universe, will not be an option in Dune: Awakening. The game's developers have cited pressure from the filmmakers behind the Dune movies as the reason for excluding this feature. However, they have hinted that post-launch patches might introduce additional content related to Freman culture, which could potentially include the much-anticipated worm-riding mechanics. For now, though, there's no guarantee that players will be able to partake in this iconic activity.

Dune: Awakening is set to launch on PC on May 20th, with console versions to follow later. Keep an eye out for updates that might bring more of the rich Dune universe to life within the game.