Funcom’s Dune Awakening Solari is about to open its deserts in a grand way. From September 11–15, the game is having a “zero restrictions” free weekend. That means all content is open to test, explore, experience—and even the deepest reaches of Arrakis aren’t off‑limits. 

Here’s what that means, why it’s a big deal, and how to make the most of it.

What “Zero Restrictions” Actually Means

Previously, Dune: Awakening free‑trials had limits: certain zones locked, limited play time, restrictions on whom you could play with. Not this time. The upcoming free weekend allows:

  • Full access to the map: Hagga Basin, Deep Desert, the social hubs of Harko Village and Arrakeen City. 

  • No time cap: you won’t be cut off after a few hours. Go as far as you can during the weekend. 

  • Play with all: you can join friends who already own the game and play on their servers.

  • Carry‑forward progression: anything you do during the free weekend, if you purchase the game afterward, will carry over. 

What’s New With Chapter 2 & “Lost Harvest” DLC

This free weekend isn’t just about unrestricted access—it also coincides with the arrival of Chapter 2 (launched September 9) and the Lost Harvest DLC. Here’s what those bring:

  • Continuation of the main story arc, plus new contracts, new armor, and more tools (character re‑customization is now possible). 

  • A standalone storyline via Lost Harvest DLC, plus a unique new vehicle.

  • Added social features, cosmetic customization, and dynamic encounters in desert zones. 

So the free weekend isn’t just about letting new players roam—it’s also a celebration of the new content for veterans.

Why It’s a Big Deal

  1. Trust and transparency: by removing caps/restrictions, Funcom is saying: “We believe in letting players see what they’ll get.” That tends to build goodwill in the gaming community.

  2. Bragging rights for exploring everything: Some zones in Dune: Awakening are fearsome (especially Deep Desert). Allowing everyone to see what these places are like will help players judge the scope and scale for themselves.

  3. Social & community benefits: playing with existing owners means guides, friends, and clans can include newcomers. It helps seed the community, forge alliances, and share tips in real time.

  4. Better feedback loop: unrestricted access means more varied data. Players will discover bugs, balance issues, and things that only show up when venturing into later/harder zones. Funcom can respond with more informed patches.

Tips to Get the Most Out of the Free Weekend

If you’re planning to dive in (or if you convince a friend to try it), here are some strategic moves to get the best experience:

  • Plan your time: since there’s no cap, decide early whether you want to explore shallow social hubs first (Harko, Arrakeen) or plunge straight into Hagga Basin or Deep Desert. The latter is more tense, more dangerous.

  • Bring friends if you can: if anyone you know already owns the game, coordinate to play on the same servers. Being in a group helps for resource gathering, base building, defense vs sandworms and other threats.

  • Don't ignore survival basics: water, heat, sandstorms, sandworms—Arrakis will punish neglect. Even with big ambitions, make sure you know the survival mechanics.

  • Explore the new features: try the new character customization, check out the Lost Harvest storyline, new armor/vehicles. See what works and feels right for you.

  • Document your journey: between zones, cosmetic loot, social hub experiences, dynamic encounters: there’s a lot to show off and share. If streaming or posting, you’ll have plenty of content.

Final Thoughts

The September 11‑15 free weekend for Dune: Awakening is shaping up to be among the most generous and open “try before you Buy Dune Awakening Solari” events in recent memory for a survival MMO. The zero restrictions policy, full map access, carry‑over progress, and the fresh Chapter 2 + Lost Harvest content combine to create real value—for new players and returning ones alike.

If you’ve been curious about Arrakis, this is your chance: dig in, get messy, conquer every dune, and then decide if you want to make your stay permanent. Just watch out for sandworms.