Dune: Awakening throws players into the harsh deserts of Arrakis, where survival isn’t just about brute strength—it’s about wit, stealth, and knowing when to strike. One of the early missions that tests these skills is The Jackal, a quest from the Assassin’s Handbook storyline. This mission isn’t your typical run-and-gun operation. Instead, it demands patience, careful movement, and a sharp eye for detail. If you’re struggling to complete it, don’t worry. This guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you eliminate your target without raising alarms.
Before diving into the mission, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. The Jackal is a beggar hiding in the shadowy alleys of Arrakeen, spreading dissent among the lower classes. Elara Tuek, acting on behalf of Count Fenring, tasks you with silencing him—permanently. She provides you with a Shigawire Garotte, a silent weapon that won’t trigger security scans. Your job is to find the Jackal, kill him discreetly, and escape without alerting anyone.
Starting the Quest
The mission begins after speaking with Elara Tuek. She marks the general area where the Jackal operates—the Warrens, a maze-like slum in southern Arrakeen. Unlike other quests, The Jackal doesn’t hold your hand with glowing markers. Instead, you’ll need to explore carefully, looking for subtle environmental clues.
Finding Jackal’s Alley
The Warrens are dense and confusing, filled with narrow pathways and hidden corners. To locate Jackal’s Alley:
- Head to the Southern Edge – The alley is tucked away in the southern part of the Warrens. Look for less-traveled paths where beggars and outcasts linger.
- Watch for Visual Cues – The entrance isn’t marked, but you’ll notice a cracked wall or an unusually tight passage. If you’re stuck, patrol the area slowly—sometimes the trigger takes a moment to activate.
- Enter Stealthily – Once you find the entrance, move in quietly. The Jackal is surrounded by other beggars, and drawing attention could ruin the mission.
Assassinating the Jackal
This is where patience pays off. The Jackal isn’t a combat-heavy target—he’s a stealth kill. Here’s how to do it right:
- Observe First – Before making your move, take a moment to study the area. The Jackal usually lingers near a group of beggars. Rushing in could alert them.
- Use the Garotte – Sneak up behind him and wait for the prompt. The Shigawire Garotte ensures a quick, silent kill. If done correctly, nearby NPCs won’t react.
- Avoid Open Combat – If you’re spotted, the mission becomes much harder. The Jackal might flee, or worse, bystanders could call for guards. Stick to the shadows.
Escaping Safely
Once the deed is done, your next challenge is leaving unnoticed. Retrace your steps back the way you came. The game doesn’t spawn additional enemies, but lingering too long might attract unwanted attention. If you encounter a bug where the quest doesn’t update, try walking around the alley entrance again or reloading your save.
Mission Rewards
Completing The Jackal grants:
- 100 XP – A modest boost, but every bit helps in the early game.
- Story Progression – This mission unlocks deeper layers of the Assassin’s Handbook questline, setting up more complex contracts later.
While the rewards seem light, the real value lies in mastering stealth mechanics. Dune: Awakening isn’t just about fighting—it’s about strategy, and The Jackal is an excellent introduction to that playstyle.
Tips for a Smooth Mission
- Save Before Starting – Bugs can happen. Having a recent save ensures you don’t lose progress if something goes wrong.
- Wear Light Armor – Heavy gear makes noise. Opt for stealth-friendly clothing to move quietly.
- Take Your Time – Rushing leads to mistakes. Watch patrol patterns, time your movements, and strike when the moment is right.
- Listen to Dialogue – Sometimes, NPCs drop hints about the target’s location or behavior.
