The arid landscapes of Arrakis are buzzing with anticipation as Funcom rolls out a thrilling new contest for Dune: Awakening enthusiasts, inviting them to flex their creative muscles in an epic building showdown. Dubbed "Build Your Dune," this competition sets the stage for players to channel their inner architects, crafting structures that whisper tales of loyalty to the Atreides, devotion to the Harkonnen, or the shrewd neutrality of CHOAM. Kicking off on July 14, 2025, and wrapping up on July 28 at 6 p.m. EST, the contest feels like a desert storm brewing excitement—players who miss the deadline won't get a shot at glory, but for those in the fray, the rewards are nothing short of legendary. Winners will be unveiled on August 8, promising a whirlwind of recognition and prizes that have the community chattering non-stop. It's as if the game itself is leaning in, urging builders to pour their souls into every brick and beam. 😊
Crafting the Perfect Build: Rules and Inspiration
At its heart, the contest challenges players to construct edifices that scream allegiance to their chosen faction. Whether it's a fortress guarding against sandworms or a serene resting place echoing the politics of the Imperium, Funcom wants creations that ooze thematic flair. Players can mix and match building pieces like a master chef spices a dish—think CHOAM elements in an Atreides-themed hideout or Harkonnen accents in a neutral zone. The judging panel, made up of Funcom's own developers, will zero in on the exterior only, focusing on creativity, originality, and how snugly the build fits its faction's vibe. For a dose of inspiration, here's a glimpse at what the studio envisions:
This CHOAM masterpiece by a Funcom dev shows off the kind of ingenuity players are aiming for—structures that feel alive in the Dune universe.
Rewards That Pack a Punch
Oh boy, the prizes here are a real game-changer, turning heads faster than a sandstorm on Arrakis! Funcom has lined up some jaw-dropping goodies for the top builders, with categories split by faction to keep things spicy. The loot table breaks down like this:
| Category | Number of Winners | Prize | Additional Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Place | 3 (one per faction) | LEGO Dune Atreides Royal Ornithopter | Exclusive in-game Atreides Battle Rifle |
| Runner-Ups | 6 (two per faction) | Dune: Awakening Collector’s Box | Exclusive in-game Atreides Battle Rifle |
| Honorable Mentions | Variable | Exclusive in-game Atreides Battle Rifle | N/A |
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First Place: Snagging this spot means bagging a physical LEGO set—talk about a collector's dream! For Atreides, Harkonnen, or CHOAM builders who nail it, it's the ultimate bragging right.
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Runner-Ups: Six lucky souls get the deluxe Collector’s Box, perfect for die-hard fans. It's almost like the game is whispering, "You earned this."
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Honorable Mentions: No cap on numbers here; if a build stands out, even if it doesn't win top spots, Funcom doles out that sweet in-game rifle. Everyone walks away with something, making it a win-win frenzy.
To see the loot in all its glory:
These prizes are the real deal, lighting a fire under players to go all out.
Submitting Your Masterpiece: Tips and Tricks
Getting your build in the running is a breeze, but a few pro tips can make the difference between blending in and shining bright. Players can submit entries as photos or videos, with social media being the go-to playground. For photos, if you're stuck uploading, toss them on Imgur or similar sites—just remember to tag @duneawakening and #DuneAwakening on platforms like X (Twitter) and BlueSky. Funcom's even teamed up with Pimp My Dune, so submissions there need the "Building Contest" tag. Videos? Keep it lit and clear, folks! Night captures might look moody, but good lighting ensures your build doesn't vanish into the shadows. Share on YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram with those same tags, and for Pimp My Dune, pair images with a YouTube link in the description. It's like the game is nudging, "Don't forget the basics—light it up and show it off!" 😉
Why This Matters in the Dune Universe
Beyond the glitz of prizes, this contest taps into the soul of Dune: Awakening, where base-building isn't just a feature—it's the game's heartbeat. Players are already raving about how it elevates survival MMOs, with reviews calling it a "surprise hit" that sets a high bar in an era of buggy launches. The recent patch hiccup, where Funcom reimbursed items, only fueled the community's passion, showing that the studio listens and adapts. As the contest heats up, it's clear that these creations aren't mere structures; they're narratives woven into the sands, breathing life into a world that keeps evolving.
So, as the July deadline looms, the excitement is palpable—builders are diving in headfirst, knowing that every wall they raise could echo in Dune lore. Just like the desert reclaims its own, this contest promises to leave a lasting mark, reminding everyone why Dune: Awakening remains a beacon in 2025's gaming landscape.