Dune: Awakening Gets Free Blood and Ice Expansion

Funcom announced Blood and Ice, a free expansion for Dune: Awakening scheduled to release on December 1. Eurogamer reports that the update introduces a frozen survival map called the Polar Sink alongside an offline single player mode.

What it means for players

The expansion introduces a frozen environment with new survival priorities for players.

"The Polar Sink is composed of two different biomes, the tundra and the icecap."

Surviving in these conditions requires players to prepare for severe cold as they navigate the area.

"Instead of protecting yourself from extreme heat, you'll need to find ways to stay warm."

The frozen territory also provides resources for player bases. Eurogamer reports that players can harvest ice to cool base equipment and speed up production.

Along with the December map, solo play arrives earlier in the schedule. Rock Paper Shotgun reports that an offline mode is scheduled to arrive in November so players can play without an internet connection.

Should you buy now or wait?

Dune: Awakening released on June 10, 2025, as an action, adventure, RPG, and MMO title on Steam. Buyers deciding when to pick up the game face different timing factors based on how they play.

Because Blood and Ice is a free expansion scheduled for December 1, existing owners will gain access to the Polar Sink map without an additional purchase. Purchasing early gives players time to explore the world and build base infrastructure before the new resource mechanics arrive.

The upcoming features arrive in two separate stages. The offline single player mode is scheduled to land first in November, followed by the Blood and Ice expansion release on December 1.

Players primarily interested in experiencing the title alone without server requirements may prefer to wait for the November update. That release allows them to play without an internet connection before the expansion launches.

Prices start at €19.96.

The store lists the game for Steam, with purchasing options for a standard key or a Steam account edition. Eligible activation regions include Europe, Global delivery, and Latin America excluding the Dominican Republic and Mexico.