Funcom, the makers of the hit survival game Dune: Awakening, just said sorry to players upset over the new Lost Harvest DLC. The $12.99 add-on promised a building set but delivered only four pieces, sparking backlash. What went wrong, and how will they fix it? Read on for the full story.
The Apology and What Sparked It
Funcom released the Lost Harvest DLC for Dune: Awakening this week, touting a new story, vehicle, cosmetics, and a “Dune Man building set.” Players expected a full kit to craft bases like the tough workers on Arrakis. Instead, they got just four pieces.
Funcom admitted their wording misled fans. In a statement, they said communication fell short, creating false hopes. The focus was on the side story and Treadwheel vehicle, but calling those four items a “set” set the wrong tone.
This isn’t the first time a game DLC has led to quick apologies. Just days ago, Paradox faced heat over Crusader Kings 3 issues. Funcom acted fast, posting their response the day after launch.
Players dove in expecting tools to build epic desert bases. The letdown hit hard in a game where survival means crafting strong shelters against sandworms and storms.
Player Backlash and Steam Reviews
Gamers voiced their anger loud and clear. On Steam, the DLC sits at “mostly negative” with only 25% positive reviews. Many called it a rip-off, saying the four pieces don’t justify the price.
One review slammed it as “barely anything,” while others accused Funcom of ignoring core game problems. The advertising showed a full base, which fueled the fire.
This controversy shows how trust can break in gaming communities. Fans feel burned when promises don’t match reality, especially in a new title like Dune: Awakening, which launched in June.
Some players praised the new story and vehicle. But the building set became the main gripe, turning excitement into frustration overnight.
Social media buzzed with complaints. Posts on platforms like X highlighted the gap between hype and delivery, urging others to hold off buying.
Funcom’s Plan to Make It Right
Funcom isn’t just saying sorry; they’re taking action. They promised to add about 15 more Dune Man building pieces for all DLC owners. The update should roll out late September or early October.
This move aims to turn the tide. By expanding the set, they hope to meet those initial expectations and rebuild goodwill.
The timing lines up with other game improvements. Dune: Awakening just got its Chapter 2 free update, adding story bits, character tweaks, and bug fixes. It made sandworms less wild and cut down on quicksand spots.
To sweeten the deal, Funcom launched a free weekend on Steam until September 15. Anyone can try the full game without limits. Plus, the base game is 20% off until September 22.
Here’s what the Chapter 2 update includes:
- New dynamic encounters in the desert
- Better combat mechanics
- Fewer bugs for smoother play
- Options to re-customize your character
These changes show Funcom’s push to keep players hooked amid the DLC drama.
Game Background and Bigger Picture
Dune: Awakening is an open-world survival MMO set on the harsh planet Arrakis, inspired by Frank Herbert’s sci-fi classic. Thousands of players share the sandy world, fighting for spice and dodging massive sandworms.
Funcom, known for games like Conan Exiles, launched it in June after betas. It quickly drew fans with its mix of building, combat, and lore.
But post-launch hiccups aren’t new. An earlier patch wiped player progress by accident, leading to another apology and fixes. Communication gaps happened too, blamed on required staff vacations.
In the gaming industry, DLC controversies often stem from pricing and content mismatches. A 2023 study by the Entertainment Software Association found 70% of players buy add-ons, but satisfaction drops when value feels low. This data, from surveys of over 4,000 gamers, highlights the need for clear marketing.
Funcom’s quick response could set a positive example. By listening and adding content, they show commitment to their community.
The Dune: Awakening DLC flap reminds us how fast word spreads in gaming. Players invest time and money, expecting fair deals. When things go wrong, it hurts trust, but fixes can bring hope. Funcom’s apology and planned updates offer a path forward, potentially turning critics into fans again. What do you think about this mix-up? Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this article to your friends on social media.
