Set within the renowned Dune universe created by Frank Herbert, Dune: Spice Wars transports players to the barren and desolate planet of Arrakis. In this captivating sci-fi strategy game, water and the enchanting Spice powder are the most coveted commodities. Players can assume control of different factions, each vying to expand their territories and gain control of the planet's valuable resources. Engaging in a nuanced system of diplomacy and economics, players can enjoy diverse play-styles as they navigate this immersive world. Whether embodying the noble Atreides, the fearsome Harkonnens, or the legendary Fremen, sci-fi enthusiasts will find ample references to the original source material, guaranteeing an entertaining experience.
To secure dominion over the vast expanse of Arrakis, players must possess the essential resource known as Authority. This valuable asset accrues gradually over time, empowering factions to annex new territories. However, it is futile to launch attacks on uncharted lands without sufficient quantities of Water and Authority, as occupation becomes unattainable until these requirements are met. The distance between a Village and a faction's central stronghold directly impacts the amount of Authority necessary for annexation. Therefore, achieving this coveted resource hinges upon the following methods for its acquisition.
Reducing Authority Costs
Players can increase their Authority in the game by constructing buildings and researching technologies that provide an Authority bonus. Instead of increasing the rate at which Authority is generated, these options primarily reduce the overall cost of annexing new territories.
For example, the Developments Local Dialect Studies and Outpost Logistics can lower the cost of annexing new villages by 15% and 30% respectively. On the other hand, the Sand Diplomacy Statecraft Development can boost the production of Authority from Agents by 20%. Investing in these developments early in the game will facilitate faster expansion into neighboring territories, resulting in higher resource yields and a competitive advantage over opponents.
Increasing Authority Generation
Authority can be generated automatically over time through the player's Agents and territory control. Having a negative relation with another faction can also increase the player's authority, making war beneficial in the long term. Assigning Agents to Arrakis Information tasks can produce additional authority, which can be done through the Espionage panel. There may be additional tasks and missions for Agents that can lead to small increases in authority.
One of the quicker methods for generating authority is by constructing an Administrative Hall in the main base. This will increase authority production by 30% and increase Solari production in Villages by +3. Constructing the Administrative Hall requires spending 1000 Solari and 500 Plascrete, making it a challenging investment early on. It takes 8 days to construct and has an upkeep cost of around 10 Solari per day for the player.
Players have the option to swiftly gain authority by engaging with Water Seller Caravans. This will allow them to acquire authority by exchanging it for Solari. The initial cost is 500 Solari, although the exact amount of authority obtained may fluctuate based on the in-game economy.
Dune: Spice Wars is currently accessible on PC.