Funcom has confirmed that the upcoming 1.1.20.0 update for Dune Awakening will no longer include the previously planned compactor threat increase. The decision follows strong community feedback, leading the developers to remove the mechanic before release.

Dune Awakening Changes in the Patch

The update, set for August 12, will bring significant gameplay adjustments. Sandworms will become more dangerous with faster breach animations and deadlier collisions. Certain resources will be relocated to more hazardous zones, adding new challenges to resource gathering. Base structures built without proper support will collapse upon update implementation, reinforcing realism in building mechanics. Aerial combat will also see changes, with Ornithopters now colliding and bouncing off one another to improve player-versus-player interactions.

Quality of Life Improvements

The patch will add new quality-of-life features including the ability to deposit all water and blood at once, an enhanced Exchange search interface, and an upgraded Solido Replicator tool that allows players to copy entire base layouts more efficiently.

Removal of Compactor Threat Increase

The originally planned mechanic that would have increased sandworm aggression when using Static Compactors has been officially dropped. Sandworms will still pose natural threats in the desert, but the compactor-specific risk will not be implemented.

Developer Commitment

Funcom stated that the removal of this mechanic was driven by feedback from the player community. The studio emphasized its commitment to balancing difficulty while ensuring an enjoyable experience for solo and group players alike.