Dune: Awakening adds free ice map and flips survival rules in December update

Dune: Awakening is getting a massive free update this December that introduces a whole new frozen map. According to PC Gamer, the 'Blood and Ice' DLC transports players from the desert to the planet's polar north.

The new area, called the Polar Sink, completely inverts the game's core survival mechanics. Instead of struggling against the heat, players must now find ways to stay warm. The zone features two distinct biomes: a tundra and a more severe icecap.

PC Gamer reports that the region is controlled by powerful 'water shippers'. The primary goal of the expansion is to break their monopoly on the ice. Successfully securing this resource will allow players to enhance their desert operations.

The developer, Funcom, states the DLC adds roughly 35 hours of new progression. It is scheduled to launch on December 1. The studio also plans to support and grow the game for the next several years.