Get ready to dive into the epic universe of Dune: Imperium, a game that blends classic worker placement with a twist of deck-building to create a unique strategic experience. Inspired by both the acclaimed Legendary Pictures film and the seminal literary saga by Frank Herbert, Brian Herbert, and Kevin J. Anderson, you assume the role of a leader from one of the Great Houses of the Landsraad. Your mission? To raise your banner, marshal your forces and spies, and prepare for the impending war for control of Arrakis, the desert planet and source of the coveted Spice.

Each player begins with a unique leader and an identical starting deck. As the game progresses, your choices in acquiring new cards will shape your strategies, defining your strengths and weaknesses. Cards are the key to sending your Agents to different locations on the game board, meaning your deck's evolution directly impacts your tactics. You might focus on military might, dominating conflicts with more troops, or seek influence with the four political factions in the game: the Emperor, the Spacing Guild, the Bene Gesserit, and the Fremen.

Unlike many deck-building games, you don't play your entire hand at once here. Each round, you draw a hand of cards and take turns with other players, performing one Agent turn at a time—that is, playing one card to place one of your Agents on the board. When you have no more Agents to place, it's time for the Reveal phase. You reveal the remaining cards in your hand, which will provide Persuasion (to acquire more cards) and Swords (to strengthen your troops in the round's conflicts). Defeat your rivals in combat, shrewdly navigate political intrigues, and collect valuable cards. The Spice must flow to lead your House to victory!