We all knew where this would end.
We built autonomous weapons because they were inevitable; because if we didn't, someone else would. We gambled that we could control them - and we lost. And now they do what we built them to do: fight a war against us, without end.
Metal Apex: Rogue Prototype is a turn-based tactical game where every move is a battle of wits against a ruthless, aggressive AI. Inspired by Advance Wars and FTL, it challenges you to adapt, strategize, and outmaneuver an opponent that presses every advantage and punishes every mistake.
Turn-based, Grid-based, Tactical Combat
Metal Apex: Rogue Prototype is built for tactical enthusiasts:
Master the Terrain - Use roads for speed, forests for cover, and cities for both. And protect your base - losing it means defeat.
Allocate Unit Energy - Unit "Weapon," "Sensor," and "Engine" systems require power to function. Allocate energy among those systems to change unit characteristics on-the-fly and meet battlefield demands.
Lock on Target - Attack enemy Weapon, Sensor, and Engine systems to weaken firepower, disrupt targeting, or cripple mobility.
Merge & Regroup - Merge damaged units to recover strength and stay in the fight.
Survive - A unit's energy is also its health. When it reaches zero, the unit explodes.
Key Features
Ruthless AI - No enemy spam. The AI will beat you in a fair fight.
Adjustable Difficulty - Is the AI too strong? Lower the difficulty and enjoy the story.
Short Learning-Curve - Simple mechanics that are easy to learn, but difficult to master. No lengthy tutorials required.
Up-Tempo Pacing - Enjoy brisk close-quarters combat on single-screen maps.
10+ Missions - A gripping linear single-player campaign.
Local 2-Player PvP - Challenge a friend in head-to-head battle.
Steam Deck Compatibility - Plays beautifully on the Steam Deck.
Experience the Future of Gaming: PICO-8
Metal Apex: Rogue Prototype is built on PICO-8 - a cutting-edge fantasy console delivering state-of-the-art technology:
High-Definition 128x128 Pixel Display
Stunning 16-Color Palette
Massive 32 Kilobyte Cartridge
Rich 4-Channel Stereo Sound
Metal Apex: Rogue Prototype packs massive strategic depth into a tiny console. Take command, outthink the AI, and prove that humanity isn't obsolete!
Join the Fight!
Wishlist Metal Apex: Rogue Prototype on Steam
Follow the project on BlueSky
