Artifact (1980)

About this game

Microgame #16 in the Metagaming Microgames series is a two-player SF wargame of conflict on the Moon centering on an alien artifact called "the dingus." The official rules offer four 10-turn scenarios: three between American and Soviet "research teams" competing for control of the dingus, and one between the Americans and the alien race they've inadvertently summoned with the dingus. Approximate playing time is a guess. Isn't identified as a MicroGame on the box cover.

Does it fit your group?

• Group size. Strictly 2 players — no more, no fewer.
• Rules load. At 2.1/5 this is a mid-weight game — expect a proper rules explanation before you start.
• Age. The publisher suggests 12 and up. That rates the rules rather than the artwork, so judge the box yourself for younger players.