In Dune: Awakening, players initially have access to only two active ability slots for combat. The third slot isn’t available right away, and many players mistakenly believe it unlocks automatically after learning an additional skill. In reality, unlocking it requires completing a specific story quest.

What You Need to Do

The third slot is unlocked by completing the fourth AQL trial (Trial of AQL). This is part of the game’s main questline. You can find it in the eastern part of the Vermillius Gap region, north of the South Hagga Basin. The main landmark to look for is a rock formation called the Hollow Hammer.

To reach the trial location, you’ll need to climb the cliffs. This can be done either with a grappling belt or by following the official path on the map. At the top, you’ll find a spice chamber — a kind of arena where the trial takes place.

How the Trial Works

Inside the chamber, you'll gain temporary access to the Spice-Prescience mode — a special combat state enhanced by spice effects. After completing the trial, the third ability slot will automatically unlock, and you’ll also retain the ability to activate Spice-Prescience during combat.

Before starting the trial, make sure you’re well-prepared with survival resources — you may need to fight or avoid dangers within the spice zone. Don’t forget to collect artifacts or submit any discovered data if the quest requires it. Often, you’ll find lore-related items to scan in this area.

To unlock the third ability slot, it's not enough to simply learn more skills — you must complete a specific trial that’s part of the main storyline. Doing so not only enhances your combat potential but also unlocks a new and unique gameplay style through Spice-Prescience.