In Dune: Awakening, sandworms function as dynamic environmental forces rather than player-controlled entities. Unlike in Frank Herbert's novels, where characters could summon worms with a thumper, this feature is absent in the game.

Image: steamcommunity.com The developers explain that sandworms are NPCs with predefined patrol routes, schedules, and behaviors integrated into the game engine. Players cannot summon a worm to disrupt enemy bases. However, attracting a sandworm’s attention is possible by moving actively through the sand or using a thumper, though these actions do not ensure the worm’s arrival. Sandworm riding, a hallmark of Fremen culture in Herbert’s books and the Dune cinematic universe, is not included in Dune: Awakening. The developers noted influence from the filmmakers as the reason for excluding this mechanic. Future post-launch updates may introduce Fremen-inspired content, potentially including worm-riding features, but no such additions are confirmed at this time. Dune: Awakening releases on PC on May 20th, with console versions to follow.