In the upcoming game Dune: Awakening, sandworms will act as a formidable natural force within the game's ecosystem, rather than serving as controllable tools for players. Unlike the original novels by Frank Herbert, where characters could summon these colossal creatures using a device called a thumper, this feature will not be available in the game.

Image: steamcommunity.com

According to the developers, sandworms in Dune: Awakening are treated 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 cause disruption. However, if a sandworm is already in the vicinity, players can attempt to draw its attention by moving actively through the sand or using a thumper. Even with these actions, there's no assurance that a sandworm will appear in the desired area.

A key element of the Dune saga, the ability to ride sandworms as showcased in Herbert's books and embraced by the Freman culture, will not be included in Dune: Awakening. The developers have mentioned that pressure from the filmmakers of the Dune cinematic universe influenced the decision to exclude this iconic feature.

Looking ahead, the developers have hinted at the possibility of future updates that could introduce additional content related to Freman culture, which might include the much-anticipated worm-riding mechanics. However, there is no guarantee at this stage that players will eventually get to experience this thrilling aspect of the Dune universe.

Dune: Awakening is set to launch on PC on May 20th, with console versions to follow later.