The game uses a first-person or illustrated point-and-click presentation for conversations, travel, and interaction with important locations. Paul moves between settlements and desert regions, speaks with characters, receives missions, and discovers information about Arrakis and its people.

Strategic play expands as Paul recruits Fremen, assigns leaders, develops sietches, and organizes spice harvesting and military operations. Progress depends on completing objectives, improving equipment and skills, and eventually directing forces against the Harkonnen. The story advances through exploration, conversations, and successful missions rather than through a conventional level system.

Explore every accessible sietch and speak with its inhabitants before assigning major tasks. Information from Fremen leaders often reveals useful locations, resources, and objectives.

Develop spice production steadily, train reliable units, and avoid spreading forces too thinly. Save before major expeditions or confrontations, since failed operations can cost time and valuable personnel.