"Dune: Awakening Devs Detail Sandworm Mechanics"

In Dune: Awakening, sandworms function as an unpredictable environmental hazard rather than a summonable asset. Contrary to Frank Herbert’s source material, where protagonists could lure worms using a thumper, this mechanic is absent from the game.

Image: steamcommunity.com
According to the development team, sandworms operate as autonomous NPCs with distinct patrol paths, schedules, and behaviors integrated into the game engine. Players cannot strategically summon a worm near an opponent’s base to inflict damage. However, it is possible to draw a worm’s attention by moving vigorously across the sand or deploying a thumper, though these actions do not guarantee the creature’s arrival.
Unlike the novels and the Freman traditions they popularized, worm-riding will not be available in Dune: Awakening. The developers attribute this decision to creative direction from the filmmakers overseeing the Dune cinematic universe.

That said, future post-launch updates might expand on Freman culture, possibly introducing worm-riding features. For now, however, players should not expect to experience this iconic activity.

Dune: Awakening releases on PC on May 20th, with console versions arriving at a later date.