Dune 2: The Battle for Arrakis (Sega)

Dune 2: The Battle for Arrakis (Sega), developed by Westwood Studios and published by Virgin Interactive in 1992, is an iconic strategy game inspired by David Lynch's adaptation of Frank Herbert's Dune. Set in the sandy deserts of Arrakis, the sole source of the universe's most valuable substance, melange, the game thrusts players into an intense struggle for control of the planet and its resources.

Story & Setting: Emperor Frederick IV of House Corrino's desperation for the spice melange, vital for its unique properties and high value, drives the plot. The emperor's promise of granting control over Arrakis to whichever House can supply him with the most spice sets the stage for an intense war. Players can choose to align with one of the three great Houses: the honorable Atreides, the brutal Harkonnen, or the enigmatic Ordos.

Game Mechanics:

1. Objective: Players aim to establish a stronghold on Arrakis, harvest spice, expand their territory, and overpower the opposing Houses.

2. Harvesting and Economy: The core mechanic revolves around extracting spice with harvesters, refining it into credits, and using those credits to construct an army and facilities.

3. Fog of War: Exploration is crucial. Initially, the map is shrouded in darkness, unveiling as players explore. Once explored, the terrain remains visible, making strategic planning pivotal.

4. Dangers of Arrakis: Arrakis is not just about the enemy Houses. The massive, fearsome sandworms pose a significant threat, consuming any units in their path. However, they can't traverse rocky terrains, offering a strategic advantage.

5. Building: To build structures, players must first lay concrete foundations on rocky terrain to prevent rapid degradation due to Arrakis's harsh conditions. However, the relentless environment will still cause wear over time.

6. Spice Fields: Indicated by orange hues, spice fields are the primary resource zones. Some spice deposits remain hidden, emerging when interacted with, often leading to a 'spice blow' that can destroy units.

7. Mission Selection: After the initial missions, players can choose their next battleground from a map of Arrakis. The choice affects the opposing House in the upcoming mission. The ultimate goal is to conquer nine territories, leading to the climactic endgame battle.

Conclusion: Dune 2: The Battle for Arrakis (Sega) is a testament to the potential of strategy games. With its compelling setting, rich storyline, and intricate gameplay mechanics, it has cemented its legacy as one of the pioneering titles in the real-time strategy genre. The struggle for control of Arrakis offers players a challenging and immersive experience, making it a classic that stands the test of time.