Dune 2

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There's a lot of gaming history out there, and you'd be surprised how certain genres got their start, and that's why we're looking at Dune 2. This story takes place in the sci-fi universe of Dune, written by Frank Herbert. Though there's a much larger and more complex narrative taking place, much of the conflict revolves around a special spice that can only be found on the desert planet of Arrakis. As the leader of one of the three main Houses, you must take control of Arrakis for yourself and dominate the spice trade.

About Dune 2

The story of Dune is old despite having recently produced two major feature-length films, but the games continue to be played among fans and enthusiasts. This game is a sequel to the original Dune title and is considered one of the first real-time strategy games ever created. As one of the three Houses, you have access to resources and forces that you must use to explore Dune and harvest spice. Of course, the High Command is only concerned with production and doesn't mind if Houses declare war on each other; with the power that the spice yields, your House needs to be ready for a long, drawn-out battle.

How to Play

Dune 2 is a 2D top-down real-time strategy game set in the Dune universe where you build your forces and facilities using the mouse. To interact with the various elements, move the cursor over them and click the Left Mouse Button. You can command units by clicking on them, selecting an action, and then a target. The goal is to take control of Arrakis and, therefore, the spice trade. If you fail to appease High Command or are conquered by another House, the game will end.

Before you begin, you'll get to choose between one of three Houses: The noble Atreides, the deceptive Ordos, or the ruthless Harkonnen. Each House has strengths and weaknesses that will be revealed as you play. When you pick your house, your advisor (Mentat) will tell you your goal and set you on how to fulfill it. You'll start on a small plot of land on Arrakis with essential resources and a few units. From there, you need to start building facilities like harvesting, units, power, and water. Each thing you construct or summon will cost you Credits, which you must present to the High Command periodically.

To earn credits, you need to harvest spices, which can be done by building refineries and finding spice fields. While you try to maintain your operations, you'll be attacked by forces from the other Houses or Arrakis. If your facilities are attacked, they will need to be repaired or rebuilt if they're destroyed. Defeated units will need to be replaced by reinforcements. Your units must explore the region, discover new locations, and defend your operations. Keep harvesting and appeasing the High Command to succeed.

Tips and Tricks

Since this is an RTS, you must consider your moves carefully, similar to a Chess game. You could play it safe and maintain a small and secure base, but it won't be profitable, and enemies will eventually overwhelm you. You must divide your forces into defense and exploration while ensuring you have enough resources in reserve if things get too bad.

Game Details

Developer: Caiiiycuk
Platforms: Web Browser (PC and mobile) and Android
Languages: English

Gameplay Footage

FAQs

When was Dune 2 first released?

The original version of the game was released on January 1st, 1992.

Is Dune 2 available on mobile?

The game is pretty complex, and while it can run well on a web browser, it'd be wise to consider the APK files for an Android device.

Is Dune 2 difficult?

If you're new to the Dune universe or the RTS genre, this game can prove challenging as things move much faster than you'd expect, and you need to balance production, expansion, maintenance, exploration, and combat all at once.