Deep Dive Into the Dune Awakening Chapter 2 Update

The sands of Arrakis are shifting once again with the release of the Dune Awakening Chapter 2 update. This latest patch brings a host of new features, from unique armors to a quirky new vehicle, alongside some frustrating bugs that have sparked heated discussions in the community. Whether you're a seasoned spice harvester or a newcomer to the desert, this guide will walk you through the key changes, offer practical tips, and help you navigate the update's highs and lows. For more resources and exclusive in-game items, such as Solari, vehicles, and uniques, consider bookmarking our website and visiting our Dune Awakening Shop for the latest deals.

What's New in the Chapter 2 Update?

The Chapter 2 update introduces a mix of exciting additions and some controversial changes to Dune Awakening. Here's a breakdown of the key highlights:

1. New Archetype Armors with Gameplay Impact

One of the standout features is the introduction of archetype armors, which are more than just cosmetic. These armors come with actual stats, offering tangible benefits in combat and survival. To unlock them, you'll need to complete the Advanced Trainers missions. If you've already tackled these contracts before the update, you're in luck—log in, and the armors should drop at your feet. However, new players will need to grind through these missions to claim their rewards.

Tip: Prioritize completing the Advanced Trainers missions early to unlock these armors, as they provide a significant edge in the harsh desert environment.

2. The Tread Wheel Vehicle: Fun but Flawed

The update introduces the Tread Wheel, a new vehicle that's as goofy as it is fun to drive. Its light color changes based on the swatch you choose, adding a touch of customization. However, unlocking it requires completing the Secrets of the Past questline and gathering enough Intel Points from Imperial Stations in the Deep Desert. Be prepared for a grind, as Intel Points are essential for crafting this vehicle.

Unfortunately, the Tread Wheel comes with a catch: it doesn't fit through the new garage door introduced in the building pack. This oversight has frustrated many players, as the door only accommodates smaller vehicles like the sandbike.

Tip: Before heading to the Deep Desert, ensure you've completed the Secrets of the Past questline and stock up on Intel Points to avoid unnecessary backtracking.

3. New Contracts and Crash Site Exploration

The update kicks off with a distress call leading you to a crash site in the Hagga Basin, where you'll meet three NPCs: Quartermaster Hicks, Lieutenant Drang, and Chief Hanso. These characters offer new contracts that involve tasks like recovering a Blue Latis Kanite Crystal or fetching Torsson Sound Shifters. While these missions provide decent XP, many feel repetitive, resembling the fetch quests from the base game.

The crash site itself introduces a new location, Break of the Mera, but don't expect groundbreaking content. The missions are straightforward, with some new points of interest (POIs) like caves and camps to explore. However, the AI for mobs in these areas feels underwhelming, with enemies often failing to react to your presence.

Tip: Pick up all available contracts from the NPCs before heading out to maximize efficiency. Use the Deep Desert database to locate Imperial Stations for Intel Points.

4. Improved Loot System and Imperial Stations

The update revamps the loot system for Imperial Stations and shipwrecks, making it NPC-related. Instead of simply opening chests, you may need to clear specific enemies to unlock rewards. This change aims to make looting more engaging, but early reports suggest the AI needs tweaking, as mobs sometimes feel “dumber" than before.

Additionally, new Imperial Stations have been added to the Deep Desert, offering Intel Points and other resources. The border system in this region has also been improved, reducing freezes and hitching when transitioning between sectors.

Tip: Focus on clearing NPC rooms behind chests to unlock loot. If you encounter a chest that won't open, try clearing additional enemies or restarting the instance.

5. New Building Pieces and Decorations

The Chapter 2 building pack introduces four new pieces: a foundation, a floor piece, a double garage door, and a wall. However, the pack has been criticized for its limited scope, as players expected a full set similar to the Harkos or Atreides sets. The garage door, in particular, has drawn ire for being too small for the Tread Wheel.

On a positive note, you'll also unlock five new decorative pieces, including a wheel hologram and a captain's chair, which add flair to your base. A new red swatch, Vermilious Gap, can be applied to various items for customization.

Tip: Experiment with the new decorative pieces to enhance your base's aesthetic, but temper expectations for the building pack—it's more limited than advertised.

6. Bugs and Glitches: A Mixed Bag

The update isn't without its flaws. A significant bug allowed unlimited lab respawn loot, flooding the economy with blueprints and items before a quick patch. Other issues include glitched power sources in forbidden testing stations, requiring players to reset the instance multiple times, and unpolished cutscenes with disappearing characters and awkward camera angles. The unlimited healing glitch for equipment (by deleting a chest and spamming pickup) also persists, frustrating players who value immersion.

Tip: If you're stuck in a glitched lab, exit to the overworld and re-enter to reset the instance. Report persistent bugs to Funcom to help prioritize fixes.

Navigating the Deep Desert and New POIs

The Deep Desert has seen subtle changes, with new stony areas and improved sector transitions. A potential new POI, Runes of Old Carthog, has caught players' attention, though it's unclear if it's entirely new or simply overlooked in the past. Exploring these areas can yield valuable resources, but the Deep Desert database hasn't fully refreshed, making it tricky to locate new labs or stations.

Tip: Use the in-game map to scout for new POIs and prioritize Imperial Stations for Intel Points. Keep an eye out for community updates on the Deep Desert database for precise locations.

Why the Update Feels Lackluster

While the new armors, vehicle, and loot system tweaks are welcome, the update falls short in several areas. The repetitive fetch quests and lack of challenging enemies (many still in steel-tier armor) make the storyline feel like a chore. The building pack's deceptive advertising and the persistence of game-breaking bugs have left some players questioning Funcom's development priorities. Despite these issues, the Tread Wheel's goofy charm and the new decorative pieces offer moments of fun for dedicated players.

FAQs About the Dune Awakening Chapter 2 Update

How do I unlock the archetype armors in the Chapter 2 update?

Complete the Advanced Trainers missions. If you've already finished them, the armors should drop automatically when you log in after the update.

What's required to craft the Tread Wheel vehicle?

You need to complete the Secrets of the Past questline and gather sufficient Intel Points from Imperial Stations in the Deep Desert.

Why won't the power source work in forbidden testing stations?

This is a known glitch. Exit the lab, return to the overworld, and re-enter to reset the instance. You may need to repeat this process multiple times.

How does the new loot system work in Imperial Stations?

The loot is now NPC-related, requiring you to clear specific enemies or rooms to unlock chests. Ensure you defeat all nearby mobs if a chest remains locked.

Are the new building pieces worth it?

The building pack is limited, offering only four pieces, and the garage door doesn't accommodate the Tread Wheel. The decorative pieces, like the wheel hologram, are a nice touch but not game-changing.

Thanks for Reading

Stay tuned to MMOJUGG for more Dune Awakening insights, expert breakdowns, and hands-on strategies to elevate your gameplay. Whether you're a solo explorer or a raid leader, we've got you covered with updates, guides, and community highlights.