“Dune Imperium: Rise of Ix” Expands the Desert Strategy Universe

“Dune Imperium” is a strategy game set on a desert planet where players battle to control a valuable resource called spice. Even if you don’t know the “Dune” series, the digital version introduces you to its universe with characters like Barry Harkonnen and a focus on spice, which is like space nutmeg. The first expansion, “Rise of Ix,” will add new content to make the game even more exciting.

“Rise of Ix” introduces three new Great Houses — Moritani, Ecaz, and Vernius — each offering two new playable leaders, each with unique abilities. These additions expand gameplay diversity alongside a new technology track and dreadnought ships, enriching military strategies. The expansion promises to integrate seamlessly with the existing mechanics of alliances, battles, and card-driven gameplay.

In “Dune Imperium,” players employ deck-building and worker placement mechanics. Beginning with two agents per turn, driven by card play, they compete to amass resources like spice, money, water, and military strength over multiple rounds. Victory is pursued through accumulating points, achieved via alliances with factions like the Fremen, and strategic engagements, such as purchasing victory points from a card shop.

The digital version of the game offers accessible tutorials that swiftly introduce gameplay concepts, enabling players to devise and execute strategies from their initial matches. Despite occasional losses, matches are typically closely contested, characterized by dramatic shifts and thrilling last-minute turnarounds.

Excitement surrounds the forthcoming release of “Rise of Ix,” scheduled for the second half of July. Players anticipate how the expansion’s new Houses, leaders, technologies, and military dynamics will interact with existing systems, eager to explore the enhanced strategic depth it promises to bring to the acclaimed “Dune Imperium” experience.