Dune: Awakening's Rentable Private Servers Available at Launch — Here's What You Do (And Don't) Get

Private servers are officially coming to Dune: Awakening, though with a few strategic compromises designed to preserve the game’s signature large-scale multiplayer experience.

In a recent update posted on the game’s Steam store page, developer Funcom confirmed that “rentable private servers” will be available from day one for players entering the game during the “head start” early access period, beginning Thursday, June 5.

"We initially shared that private servers would arrive post-launch, but we’re excited to announce that development has progressed faster than anticipated," the team revealed. "That said, it's important to set realistic expectations about how private servers function in Dune: Awakening. This isn’t your average survival title."

Each private server will be part of a broader “World,” which includes several other servers sharing the same social hubs and Deep Desert environment. According to Funcom, this interconnected structure helps maintain a cohesive, community-driven feel across the game.

"We made the decision early on not to sacrifice the large-scale multiplayer elements—this is a core pillar of the Dune: Awakening experience," the update continued. "The game’s systems and content are deeply integrated into this framework."

This meant some trade-offs were necessary regarding player control over private server settings. Compared to other survival games like Conan Exiles, customization options will be more limited.

Renting a private server grants you one Hagga Basin (just like the official servers), and you’ll be able to choose which World—made up of other private servers—you want to join. However, full control over social hubs or the Deep Desert won’t be possible. That said, you’ll still have access to all of Dune: Awakening’s expansive multiplayer mechanics and events.

Dune: Awakening - January 2025 Screenshots

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Now, let’s focus on what you do gain by renting a private server. You can fully disable security zones, enabling PvP across the entire Hagga Basin—or opt for localized PvP pockets similar to public servers. Additional features include the ability to toggle off taxation and sandstorms, name your server, and set a password. Server owners can also visit other servers within their World if they know the password, and even claim land—a feature unavailable on standard servers.

"Bringing private servers to Dune: Awakening has been a complex undertaking due to our unique large-scale multiplayer architecture," the developers concluded. "It was essential to preserve the MMO-like gameplay that defines the Dune experience. While this does impose certain limitations compared to other titles, we hope this service offers value to players who prefer exclusive environments.

"We also believe the shared World system enhances the game without detracting from the rich content and mechanics that make Dune: Awakening stand out."

"As a long-time Dune fan, it’s incredibly rewarding to dive deeper into this world, and Funcom has clearly invested heavily in lore and worldbuilding—even while crafting a parallel reality outside established canon," we noted in IGN's Dune: Awakening closed beta impressions preview.

"The smallest details have meaningful impacts on gameplay. Without giving too much away, this level of care extends to every corner of the world—from factions to characters—which should delight any Dune enthusiast."

Dune: Awakening launches on June 10, 2025, for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. The release follows a three-week delay aimed at addressing issues uncovered during beta testing. Those opting for the "head start" can jump in five days earlier, starting June 5. For further insights, explore our breakdown of the game’s business model and post-launch plans, as well as the global release time schedule for Dune: Awakening.