NEWS  Games  November 26, 2023  Reading time: 3 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Frank Herbert's Dune has long been a revered source of inspiration in the gaming community, paving the way for iconic real-time strategy titles such as Dune 2: The Building of a Dynasty. Now, Shiro Games has boldly stepped into this cherished legacy with the much-anticipated release of Dune: Spice Wars on Xbox, hitting the shelves on November 28. This 4X real-time strategy game has spent a year refining its craft in early access, and while not without its rough edges, it is clear that Spice Wars was forged with a deep passion and unwavering commitment to the Dune universe.

Embarking on a journey set against the backdrop of Herbert's timeless novel, Dune: Spice Wars introduces players to a 4X experience in real time, pushing the boundaries of the genre. Borrowing elements from established 4X titles like Civilization 6, the game infuses its real-time strategy with the unique flavor of the Dune universe. Spice Wars launches with the formidable Atreides, Harkonnen, and Fremen factions, alongside the enigmatic Smugglers, House Corrino, and House Ecaz. While each faction adheres to common principles, they each boast distinctive nuances that cater to varied play styles, offering strategic depth.

The primary game mode, Battle for Arrakis, is complemented by the intense two-player Kanly Duel and the expansive Conquest Campaign. Although seasoned 4X players will find the gameplay familiar, Spice Wars ensures a smooth initiation with its helpful tooltips and tutorials.

In the vast, procedurally generated maps, players will navigate regions controlled by individual settlements, reminiscent of city-states from Civilization 6. Annexing these settlements integrates them into your dominion, while pillaging provides a swift financial boost. Settlements feature randomly assigned traits influencing infrastructure specialization, adding an extra layer of strategic decision-making.

The unforgiving environment of Dune also influences gameplay, with units degrading when outside your territory for extended periods. Sandstorms and sand worms add an unpredictable element, disrupting operations across large areas of the map. Balancing expansion, conquest, and research in real time might seem daunting, but Spice Wars maintains a leisurely pace on the map, allowing players to pause and strategize at any moment. However, challenges arise during simultaneous wars on multiple fronts, where combat lacks precision and unit behavior can be erratic.

While martial combat may leave something to be desired, Shiro Games shines in transforming espionage and policy meetings into engaging metagames within Spice Wars. This elevates the experience, turning the game into a complex battle of assassins, where strategic agent placement and political maneuvering can tip the scales of victory.

Aesthetically, Spice Wars impresses with visuals inspired by Denis Villeneuve's recent adaptation of Dune. The soundtrack, a fusion of the 1984 movie's groovy tunes and the suspenseful rock anthems from Westwood Studios' original RTS titles, creates a captivating atmosphere. 

In its current state, Dune: Spice Wars is a novel and entertaining addition to the 4X and RTS genres. While the core gameplay may not revolutionize expectations, Spice Wars successfully captures the essence and aesthetics of warfare in the Dune universe. Like Paul Atreides, this game didn't emerge fully formed to conquer empires, but with Shiro Games' ongoing dedication, there's a promising potential for greatness in the future.

The version for X-Box Series X|S, X-Box One and X-Box Cloud Gaming will be released in two days, on November 28th.

 IMAGES FUNCOM/SHIRO GAMES