In this game of bluffing and deception, players try to gain influence over the different factions of the Dune universe.
These factions (The Bene Gesserit, Fremen, Bene Tleilax, Ix, Sardaukar, Mentats, Suk doctors, Landsraad and Spacing Guild) are represented by face down cards, of which each player is dealt 2 at the start of the game and which give access to special actions.
Dune: The Art of Kanly is played out in a sequence of turns in which players use these special actions by claiming to have the necessary face down faction cards (This claim needn't be truthful and players can "bluff" ownership of any card they wish to use). The claims may in return be challenged by other players and some actions may also be countered. Players whose bluffs are revealed or players who falsely accuse another player of bluffing pay a penalty.
The game is won by either being the last player to have any face down cards or to be the first player to own 13 Spice.
In a special turn of events players may also negotiate for a shared victory using an "allied victory" ability available to all players.