Dune: Awakening Removes Vehicle Damage in PvP, Sparks Backlash

Remember when Funcom vowed to address the frustration of players constantly being crushed by helicopters in PvP? Well, they delivered a solution. Sort of.

Instead of adjusting the Ornithopters themselves, developers implemented a patch ensuring "players no longer take damage from vehicle collisions."

As PC Gamer notes, this change theoretically solves multiple issues - it protects against griefers intentionally flattening players in PvP while preventing accidental deaths from sandbike mishaps, like accidentally launching off cliffs.

Though hundreds have upvoted the announcement on the subreddit, some players observe that griefers have simply adopted new tactics rather than stopping their disruptive behavior entirely.

"Developers should reduce rocket speed while increasing thruster velocity. PvP should emphasize control rather than ambush tactics. Rockets should secure objectives, not pursue players," commented one community member.

"Scout units shouldn't carry rockets at all," proposed another. "Their speed makes rockets disproportionately effective. Assault units would be better suited since they require skill to maneuver effectively while attacking."

"Is this truly an improvement? Perhaps mutual collision damage would work better. The current system doesn't prevent Ornithopter harassment," added a third player.

Their concerns hold merit. Currently, only Tier 6 weaponry like rocket launchers or Lasguns can counter Ornithopters - equipment that requires significant playtime to unlock.

The change also eliminates the tactic of ramming NPCs with vehicles to quicken combat encounters. Still, it's certainly preferable to the previous frustrating state.

We awarded Dune: Awakening an 8/10 in our review, praising how it "brilliantly adapts Frank Herbert's universe into a survival MMO format. The progression from struggling newcomer to Arrakis power player delivers consistent enjoyment, supported by exceptionally crafted worldbuilding."

"Some areas require refinement - combat lacks polish, endgame content feels chaotic, and technical issues remain. Yet these pale against the game's numerous accomplishments."

The launch has proven tremendously successful, maintaining 'Very Positive' Steam reviews. Funcom's MMO attracted over 142,000 simultaneous players shortly after its June 10 launch, peaking at 189,333 players during its first weekend.

For newcomers, explore the available Dune: Awakening classes and our developing game guide. Our resource collection helps locate crucial materials like iron, steel, and aluminum across Arrakis.