The Sandworm is one of the major threats faced by players during games of Dune: Spice Wars. They are particularly dangerous as they are able to destroy both troops but also spice harvesters therefore costing players substantial amounts of solaris.
Gameplay[edit | edit source]
Detection[edit | edit source]
There are several ways that players may detect a sandworm. First and foremost, a sandworm may approach an area where there is increased activity; this is due to either the harvesting of spice, or when players enter into battle with other factions to capture villages.
When a sandworm is near, players will be able to visibly see the sand on the surface of Arrakis vibrate. This is the first sign that a sandworm is in the vicinity. Secondly, a warning will be given to players that a sandworm has been detected and is therefore a threat to their operations. If a player has troops in an area in which a sandworm is detected, a visible warning sign will illuminate above the troops; players are advised to move troops out of this area as soon as possible to avoid destruction.
Consequences[edit | edit source]
Sandworms are dangerous as they have the ability to eat most things on the surface of Arrakis. If a spice harvester is caught within the range of a sandworm, it will be eaten by the sandworm. To avoid this, it is best to either set harvesters to auto-recall, to recall them manually when one is warned that a sandworm is nearby.
Furthermore, troops and unique units can also be destroyed and eaten by sandworms. This can become quite costly for players as they will have to re-train the troops that they have lost as a result of the sandworm. Players are also advised to move their troops out of the area if a sandworm is detected.
The Fremen[edit | edit source]
Given their nativeness to Arrakis, the Fremen have a particular advantage over other factions. They are able to call sandworms using thumpers and consequently, can ride the sandworms around Arrakis. This is particularly advantageous over other factions which must build structures within their villages to quickly transport troops around Arrakis.
Notes and Trivia[edit | edit source]
- Sandworms are native to Arrakis and cannot be destroyed. Players must learn to adapt and live alongside them to avoid problems during gameplay.