# Metus

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2024
- **BGG Rating**: 7.5
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 1-2
- **Duration**: 30-60 min
- **Weight**: 3.00 / 5
- **Designers**: Ari D'Arconte, Matthew Folger
- **Artists**: Florian Fiedler, Moreno Paissan, Veronika Wunderer
- **Publishers**: Aerobellum Games
- **Categories**: Abstract Strategy, Civil War, Print & Play, Wargame
- **Mechanics**: Action Drafting, Area Majority / Influence, Modular Board, Paper-and-Pencil, Solo / Solitaire Game

## Verdict
Perfect for those who love tactical wargames and deep solo challenges, especially if you enjoy the tension of COIN-style games.Tense balance between dominance and adorationExtremely robust solo modeModular maps provide high replayabilityIntelligent influence systemsPaper-and-pencil reliance might be tediousRequires manual translation of componentsFOR GENRE FANS

## Description
Imagine yourself leading a faction in a country that is literally imploding. In Metus, you aren't just playing a wargame; you're attempting to become the dominant social force amidst a devastating civil war. The game shines by offering two distinct experiences: a strategic duel for two players or an intense solo challenge inspired by the COIN (Counter-Insurgency) style, where tension is constant.

The dynamics revolve around area control and influence. Each map features unique 'Advisor Actions' that players must compete for. In the competitive mode, the struggle is to see who can sway these advisors to act in their favor, followed by a tense bid to determine the turn order for the next round. But be careful: Metus isn't about simply steamrolling your opponent. There is a cruel balance here: the more Dominance you gain in an area, the stronger the backlash from the population, causing you to lose Adoration. It's a constant seesaw.

To win, you'll need to manage scoring tracks that act as the compass for your strategy. In the two-player mode, you balance Initiative, Adoration, and Dominance. In solo mode, the complexity ramps up with the addition of Fear and Morale tracks, turning the game into a true exercise in tactical juggling. If you enjoy games where every decision has a cost and victory requires pinpoint planning, Metus is for you. Additionally, as a Print & Play title, it's accessible for those who enjoy assembling their own game, though it requires attention to the translation of spreadsheets and cards to ensure the experience flows smoothly.

## FAQ
### Is the game hard to learn?
With a 3/5 weight on BGG, it's considered medium/heavy. It's not for total beginners, but those familiar with wargames or strategy games will feel right at home.

### Do I need special materials to play?
Yes, as it's a Print & Play, you'll need a printer, paper, and fundamentally, a pen and paper to track the game state.

### How long does a game take?
Usually between 30 and 60 minutes, which is quite agile given the strategic depth it offers.

### Is the solo mode actually good?
Yes! It's inspired by the COIN style, meaning it's an asymmetric and complex challenge, ideal for those who love a mental workout.

### Is the game available in English?
Yes, the core materials are in English, making it accessible for English speakers.

### Is it a game of luck or pure strategy?
It's predominantly strategy. The focus is on track management and anticipating the opponent's moves.