Funcom reveals a snowy survival map for Dune: Awakening ahead of a December launch

Funcom has announced Blood and Ice, a free expansion for its survival MMO Dune: Awakening that launches on 1st December for PC, PS5, and Xbox. The update introduces a frozen map named the Polar Sink, which developer Funcom says provides around 35 hours of new progression alongside new specialisation traits, vehicle modules, and augments. [1][2]

The new environment upends the game's typical survival mechanics by requiring players to find warmth rather than shelter from extreme heat. Split into tundra and ice cap biomes, the map challenges players to breach strongholds held by wealthy water shippers to harvest ice, which can cool base equipment and accelerate production. Funcom is also rolling out a cosmetics store to fund continued development, an offline single-player mode, and plans to introduce full cross-play in January 2027. [1][2]

The content rollout comes as the Norwegian studio undergoes a corporate restructuring and prepares for layoffs. Despite the internal changes, Funcom noted that more than a million players have joined since the game arrived on consoles, with plans for additional free updates continuing through 2027. [1][2]