Metallum^*

Metallum is a tight strategy game for exactly two players. You take the roles of corporate pilots steering factory ships, fighting for the exclusive mining rights to a planetary system. Best for duelling pairs who enjoy programmed actions and forward planning.

What's it about?

Faster-than-light travel was fatal to living organisms, so humanity sent vast factory ships to mine the galaxy, building automated extractors and hauling minerals back to Earth. Two corporations soon shared the mining monopoly. That uneasy peace breaks when a new substance, Metallum, surfaces in a long-exhausted system. It seems to make interstellar travel possible for living beings, so whoever builds the more efficient mining network wins the rights.

How a round works

Each round runs through three phases:

1. Programming: Both players simultaneously assemble a program from puzzle-like subroutines that activate ship systems such as engines or production. The stronger subroutines take longer and limit how well you can react.
2. Action: You run your programs. Because you choose the order of your subroutines, the same program can play out very differently. New extractors are deployed onto the planets.
3. Profits: You earn credits for the planets where you hold the most extractors.

After nine rounds, the pilot with the most credits wins.

Who is it for?

Metallum rewards two-player groups who want a dense, head-to-head contest. Programmed actions, timing, and sabotaging your rival's infrastructure are the core of it. Players after relaxed group games should look elsewhere.

Conclusion

A focused two-player strategy game with an unusual programming mechanism and real tactical depth. Fans of brain-burning duels will enjoy it. If you want luck, speed, or a big table, keep looking.