Dune: Awakening, the hotly anticipated open-world survival MMO from developer Funcom, recently took a controversial turn as discussions sparked regarding the portrayal of religion within the game.
Funcom’s chief creative officer, Joel Bylos, made some comments about the role of religion in Awakening at a recent press preview of the game. These remarks raised loads of concern among fans of Frank Herbert’s Dune universe, where religion plays a central role. We dive into what Bylos said, as well as the studio’s clarification.
Religion Is A Core Aspect Of The Dune Universe
Speaking with Eurogamer when they previewed Dune: Awakening, Bylos revealed that the game would take an “alternate history approach” that largely “sidesteps” religion. This comment, as predicted, made hardcore Dune fans grab their pitchforks.
The outrage is understandable, as the Dune series is renowned for its intricate network of belief systems, from the Fremen’s reverence for Muad’Dib to the Bene Gesserit Sisterhood’s rituals and prophecies.
Thankfully, Funcom acted swiftly to address these concerns. In an X/Twitter post, they acknowledged the “integral part” that religion plays in the Dune universe. Players venturing into the harsh desert world of Arrakis can expect to interact with characters from various faiths, immersing themselves in the complex belief systems that shape the planet.
The Twist Behind Dune: Awakening‘s Religious Depictions
However, a key distinction exists between the in-game world and the player’s role within it. Unlike Paul Atreides, the series’ protagonist who assumes a messianic mantle, players in Awakening won’t be hailed as religious idols. Funcom remaining tight-lipped on the potential appearance of Paul Atreides in Dune: Awakening‘s Eurogamer preview further fueled speculation on the matter.
Bylos issued a follow-up statement to Eurogamer, clarifying the intent behind the term “sidestep” in his initial comments:
When I say we ‘sidestep’ religion, I am not saying religion doesn’t exist in the game (which is how people seem to have reacted) but that the player is not a central or important figure in any religion. You can hear about the various religions in the game, you can interact with people who are part of those religions, but you aren’t the messiah or prophet of one, and you probably aren’t going to be exploiting one and leading the people on a holy war.
The inclusion of the Butlerian Jihad, the historical war between humans and AI, further underlines the thematic weight of religion. This pivotal event is deeply rooted in religious convictions about the dangers of artificial intelligence.
Bylos’ initial remarks are to blame for the confusion, as “sidestepping” religion could be misconstrued as erasing it altogether. But thankfully, Funcom has assured fans that the Dune universe’s complex web of faiths will remain intact, just experienced from a new lens. Players won’t be religious champions, but explorers navigating the complexities of Arrakis’ society.
While players won’t be leading holy wars, Dune: Awakening clearly recognizes the influence of religion, with a fair compromise on offer – respecting the series’ religious themes while carving out a unique player experience within the established lore. Awakening is navigating the adaptation process with adept balance so far, allowing fans to (cautiously) breathe a sigh of relief.
