Funcom has rolled out Patch 1.1.0.15 for Dune: Awakening, implementing crucial adjustments to PvP mechanics and server performance just over a week after the survival MMO's record-breaking launch. The update comes as the game continues to shatter concurrent player records, having surpassed 189,000 simultaneous players on Steam.

The most impactful changes target the controversial PvP respawn system in the Deep Desert zone. Initial respawns now take 70 seconds (up from 12 seconds), with subsequent revives requiring 115 seconds - a direct response to player complaints about zerg tactics by large groups. Creative Director Joel Bylos confirmed these changes aim to create fairer combat scenarios.

Vehicle mechanics receive a complete overhaul in this patch. Players will no longer take damage from vehicle impacts, eliminating the controversial 'Ornithopter ramming' strategy. Additionally, the unstuck function now properly accounts for vehicle interactions, requiring players to exit stuck vehicles before the option appears.

Server stability improvements feature prominently in this update. A critical freeze issue during Deep Desert border crossings has been resolved, while new safeguards prevent accidental map transfers during respawns. Private server selections now trigger clear warning messages to prevent confusion.

The technical fixes address numerous exploits, including:

• Base damage manipulation using cutterays
• Water extraction from non-existent deathstills
• Rapid projectile firing exploits
• Crysknife storage duplication

With these changes, Funcom demonstrates its commitment to addressing community feedback while maintaining the game's challenging survival core. The developers continue monitoring player metrics following the June 10 launch that saw 93,000 concurrent players during early access - numbers that doubled within days of full release.

Key Patch Highlights:

• PvP Respawning: 70s initial/115s subsequent timers
• Vehicle Changes: No collision damage, unstuck fixes
• Quality of Life: Improved notification positioning
• Exploit Fixes: 12 major vulnerabilities addressed
• Stability: Server/client crash reductions

The patch follows player concerns about endgame balance, particularly regarding Landsraad PvP mechanics. While early in the game's lifecycle, these changes suggest Funcom's proactive approach to maintaining Dune: Awakening's position as 2025's breakout survival MMO.