The deep desert, a sprawling endgame region in Dune: Awakening, is where players hunt for the rarest resources, blueprints, and spice deposits. While much of this zone is designed for thrilling PvP encounters, Funcom has ensured that those hesitant about clashing with other players aren’t left out. A substantial 24km PvE-only area allows gamers to explore and gather resources without the threat of rival players ambushing them.
As highlighted in a recent Funcom livestream, the deep desert is a dynamic and treacherous region. Joel Bylos, the creative director, explained that behind the shield wall lies a variety of PvE activities. Players can raid abandoned shipwrecks or explore ecolabs, offering plenty of opportunities to engage with the environment and uncover valuable loot. These elements cater to those who enjoy the survival and exploration aspects of the game without the pressure of PvP combat.
Dynamic Challenges in the Deep Desert
The deep desert isn’t just about choosing between PvP and PvE—it’s a constantly evolving landscape. A massive coriolis storm sweeps through weekly, reshaping the terrain, shifting resource locations, and even wiping out player-built bases. This ever-changing environment ensures that no two weeks on Arrakis feel the same, keeping exploration fresh and exciting.
For PvP enthusiasts, the deep desert offers control points to capture and defend, as well as rare blueprints to craft or trade. These high-stakes areas are where guilds can flex their strategies and battle for dominance over the planet’s most valuable spice deposits. However, the inclusion of a PvE zone means players can still access these rewards without diving into the fray.
Prioritising Accessibility for All Players
Funcom’s commitment to inclusivity shines through in the design of the deep desert. Scott Junior, the executive producer, emphasised during the livestream that creating a PvE zone was a priority to ensure players reluctant to engage in PvP could still experience the endgame content. This dedicated space allows gamers to explore the deep desert’s mysteries without the constant threat of being attacked by others.
The PvE area is particularly welcoming for those who love the survival elements of Dune: Awakening but prefer to avoid competitive combat. Whether scavenging shipwrecks or uncovering hidden ecolabs, players can immerse themselves in the lore and challenges of Arrakis at their own pace.
Why This Matters for Gamers
Dune: Awakening strikes a balance between catering to competitive players and those who thrive in cooperative or solo experiences. The deep desert’s dual structure ensures that every gamer, regardless of their preferred playstyle, can engage with the endgame content. The 24km PvE zone is a haven for exploration, while the PvP areas offer adrenaline-pumping battles for those ready to stake their claim on Arrakis.