Transferring a game from PC to console is no easy task, especially when the game belongs to a genre that typically thrives on PC. Keeping the core essence intact during this switch can be challenging. However, in the case of Dune Awakening, the developers have taken a proactive approach by “designing it with a controller in mind” right from the start.
Yet, there isn’t much information on when exactly a console version will launch. Even the PC release, which is expected to arrive first, remains shrouded in mystery. To dive deeper into the considerations that go into such a multi-platform undertaking, I had a chat with Nils Ryborg, the producer of Dune Awakening. His extensive experience includes working on the console port of Pillars of Eternity at Paradox, which gives him a unique perspective on the challenges involved.
Reflecting on his past work, Ryborg said, “I remember the challenges with Pillars of Eternity; we spent a lot of time tweaking the user experience, drawing influences from action RPGs, especially in terms of movement.” He added, “It’s mainly a tactical game, and the controller imposes limitations. We created AI tactics to assist players, allowing NPCs to make better decisions and giving players more control.”
He went on to explain, “We simplified character movement and quick decision-making, enhancing real-time combat efficiency. Yet, we retained the pause feature for executing complex strategies. We also refined basic UX elements, such as button cycling. The goal was to infuse ARPG elements while preserving tactical depth.”
So, how does Funcom’s strategy compare? Did they adopt a similar approach, or did they find a way to ease the transition? Ryborg explained, “Starting with console-first development simplifies matters. That design can easily transition back to PC. If a game is strictly PC-designed with mouse and keyboard controls, porting becomes more complex. With Dune Awakening, we had console controls in mind from the beginning.”
He reassured me, “Even though we’re releasing on PC first, the console version is well thought out. Sure, there are the usual tech challenges with hardware limitations, but overall, it needs to operate smoothly. It shouldn’t be overly complex.”
While console enthusiasts eagerly awaiting Dune Awakening will have to hang tight for more updates, they can take comfort in the fact that their version is being developed with the same attention to quality as the PC iteration.
