How Spiel des Jahres describes the cards, factions and conflict of Dune: Imperium

Based on the world-famous series of novels by Frank Herbert and visually inspired by the recent film adaptation from Denis Villeneuve, “Dune: Imperium” transports players to the desert planet Arrakis. Once there, they have to make the most efficient use possible of the valuable Spice and rare water resources while simultaneously striving for power and influence with the ruling factions: if players earn the favour of the spacing guild, they can quickly send multiple troops into the current conflict, while trading with the Bene-Gesserit sisterhood can provide powerful intrigue cards. This is a clever enhancement of the classic worker placement mechanic: players always need to play a matching card from their hand to take an action. The acquisition of new cards opens up more options and new strategies. Although conflict is initiated on the battlefield at the end of each round, “Dune: Imperium” isn’t a confrontational game but a highly interactive one. It’s important to recognise your opponents’ plans and to take them into account during your own scheming.