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Dune: Awakening Sandworms Explained by Devs

By SimonOct 29,2025

Sandworms in Dune Awakening Act as Environmental Hazards Rather Than Summonable Creatures

In Dune: Awakening, sandworms function as environmental forces rather than player-controlled assets. Departing from Frank Herbert's original novels where characters could summon worms using thumpers, this feature will be absent from the game.

According to developers, sandworms exist as autonomous NPCs with predetermined patrol patterns, daily cycles, and behavioral algorithms hardcoded into the game. Players cannot intentionally summon worms near enemy bases to create strategic advantages. However, natural worm encounters may occur when creating vibrations—through rapid sand movement or thumper use—though these methods don't ensure predictable appearances.

The iconic Freman practice of worm-riding, central to Herbert's universe and recent film adaptations, won't be available at launch. Creative director Joel Bylos confirmed this exclusion stems from creative restrictions imposed by the Dune film franchise rights holders.

Future updates may expand Freman cultural elements, potentially introducing worm-mounted traversal. Currently, however, developers make no promises about implementing this signature Dune experience.

Dune: Awakening releases May 20th for PC, with PlayStation and Xbox versions arriving subsequently.

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