Navigating the harsh landscapes of Arrakis isn't a solo journey in Dune: Awakening. One of the most crucial decisions you'll face is choosing which House to align with. Since the game's full release in early 2025, the House system has become even more integral to gameplay, offering unique benefits and storylines that can dramatically change your experience. Let's break down how to join a House in Dune Awakening and what each option offers.

How to Join a House in Dune: Awakening

The process of joining a House isn't immediately obvious to newcomers, which has left many players scratching their heads. To put it simply, you'll need to follow these steps:

1. Progress through the initial storyline until you reach the Anvil trade post

2. Start completing faction-specific contracts for your preferred House

3. Create a guild (even if you're the only member)

4. Continue faction quests until you're invited to the House's social hub

5. Formally pledge your allegiance at the hub

As Matt Goss pointed out in the community, "Anvil trade post will let you start the contracts for either faction." This is your gateway into the House system, so don't rush past this important location.

Choosing Between Houses: Pros and Cons

House Atreides

Pros:

• Currently winning more Landsraad votes in the 2025 season

• Better for newer players who want consistent rewards

• Strong defensive capabilities

• Honor-based mission structure

Cons:

• More crowded, with approximately 60% of players choosing Atreides

• Less exclusive rewards

• Some players find their storyline more predictable

As one player mentioned, "As a newer player am I better off joining Atreides as they are more likely to win Landsraad?" The short answer is yes - if you're looking for stability and consistent rewards, House Atreides offers a solid foundation.

House Harkonnen

Pros:

• Unique "drip" (better aesthetic options according to veterans)

• Underdog status means less competition for resources

• More aggressive play style benefits

• Interesting spy and sabotage missions

Cons:

• Currently less successful in Landsraad votes

• Requires more strategic gameplay

• Darker storyline may not appeal to all players

One player noted they "only picked Harkonnen because I heard they're the underdogs, at least when it comes to players chosen faction. Also that they have better drip." If you're looking to stand out and don't mind a challenge, House Harkonnen might be your jam.

Can You Switch Houses?

The good news is that Dune: Awakening does allow players to change their House allegiance once. This is particularly valuable if you want to experience different storylines or if your friends are predominantly in another House.

If you complete the story with one House and then switch, you can still experience the full storyline with your new faction. This flexibility has been a hit with players who want to see all the content without creating multiple characters.

Do You Have to Join a House?

For those wondering if House membership is mandatory - the answer is no. You can play Dune: Awakening as an independent operator, though you'll miss out on certain benefits and storylines. The devs have been crystal clear that this is a viable path, though it's definitely playing on hard mode.

As one player put it, "It's a war of assassins and we're the assassins." Whether you choose Atreides, Harkonnen, or independence, you'll be doing morally complex work - it just depends on whose banner you prefer to do it under.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your House in Dune: Awakening isn't just a cosmetic decision - it's a whole vibe that will shape your gameplay experience. The 2025 updates have made House politics even more dynamic, with shifting power balances that keep things interesting.

Remember, you can always dip your toes in the water with one House and switch later if it's not your cup of tea. The spice must flow, regardless of which banner you fight under on the sands of Arrakis.

So saddle up those sandworms and pick your poison - whether you're Team Blue or Team Red, Dune: Awakening has plenty of political intrigue waiting for you!