Dune Awakening Set to Launch on PC with Controller-Centric Design

Transferring a game from PC to console often presents significant challenges, particularly when the game in question is rooted in a genre typically associated with PCs. Navigating these platform shifts without losing game quality can be quite the juggling act. However, with Dune Awakening, the developers have taken a proactive approach, crafting the game “with a controller in mind” from the outset.

That said, there’s still no definitive timeline for when we might see a console version. Even the PC release date remains under wraps. To get a better understanding of what goes into preparing a game for multiple platforms, I had a chat with Nils Ryborg. Currently a producer on Dune Awakening, he’s no stranger to porting games, having worked on the console adaptation of Pillars of Eternity at Paradox. His insights are certainly illuminating.

Reflecting on past experiences, Ryborg recalled, “Working on Pillars of Eternity (laughs), a big concern was reimagining the user experience for a console audience, drawing inspiration from action RPGs, particularly regarding movement.” He emphasized the constraints of using a controller for such a tactical game. “To address this, we developed AI architects to improve NPC decision-making and guidance,” he explained.

Ryborg continued, “We streamlined player movement and decision-making to handle real-time combat more efficiently. Yet, we retained mechanics like the pause feature, enabling more sophisticated strategies. Naturally, we had to rework basic UX elements, like cycling through buttons. Our aim? Infuse some ARPG elements while preserving tactical depth.”

That was Paradox’s take. What about Funcom’s strategy? Did they follow a similar path, or did they find ways to simplify the transition?

“Starting off with console development tends to make things easier,” Ryborg admitted. “Elements can transition smoothly back to PC, but creating a game that’s intended for PC with mouse and keyboard controls poses significant challenges when porting to consoles. That’s why focusing on controller compatibility from day one is crucial.”

“Having said that, we’ll be launching on PC first. It’s essential for us to ensure that platform has a solid framework. As for consoles, I’m not too concerned about the UX. Sure, there are technical constraints, given hardware limitations, but maintaining performance without complicating things unnecessarily is key.”

So, while console enthusiasts eagerly awaiting Dune Awakening might have to be patient a bit longer, they can rest assured that the eventual console version won’t stray far from what PC players experience.