Rivals for Catan Deluxe is a two-player card game where each player leads a faction vying for control of the newly settled island. Players develop their principality by managing resources, expanding territories, and constructing settlements and cities. Gameplay involves strategic card play, dice-driven events, and resource trading to strengthen their domain. The deluxe edition includes four card-holder trays for organized play, redesigned victory point tokens, and nine exclusive promotional cards not found in the base game. It also features three themed variants—The Age of Gold, The Age of Turmoil, and The Era of Progress—each introducing distinct scenarios and gameplay mechanics. Victory depends on tactical decision-making and adapting to chance events. The game offers a structured yet dynamic experience for players familiar with the Catan universe.