A downloadable game

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 X-COM, it challenges you to adapt, strategize, and outmaneuver an opponent that presses every advantage and punishes every mistake.

Turn-based, Grid-based, Tactical Combat

Every battle in Metal Apex: Rogue Prototype is a high-stakes test of strategy and adaptability. Your ability to read the battlefield and make calculated decisions will determine your success:

  • 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
More information