In Dune: Awakening, sandworms are forces of nature, not player-controlled tools. Unlike in Frank Herbert's novels, where characters use thumpers to summon worms, this mechanic is absent.
Image: steamcommunity.com
Sandworms are independent NPCs with programmed patrol routes and behaviors, according to the developers. You can't summon a worm to attack enemy bases. However, actions like moving through the sand or using a thumper might attract a nearby worm's attention, though this isn't guaranteed.
Riding sandworms, a staple of Freman culture in Herbert's novels and the film adaptations, won't be available at launch. The developers attribute this omission to constraints from the Dune film franchise.
Future updates may add more Freman-related content, potentially including worm-riding, but this isn't confirmed.
Dune: Awakening launches on PC May 20th, with console releases to follow.
