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I sure do love 4x strategy games, but they really can take forever - which is where Astro Protocol is different with its tactical approach. A space strategy 4x that doesn't waste your time, with games designed to last around an hour or so.

Astro Protocol sees you explore the galaxy, discover anomalies, colonize and terraform planets, construct space stations, and research technologies across three randomized research branches. Combat takes place on a one-unit-per-tile tactical hex map, where mistakes are costly and every move counts. Victory is earned by completing objectives or outlasting rival factions.

Every single tile matters in this more focused game, with you competing for every station and every single tile. See the newest trailer below:

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Some highlights:

  • 6 playable factions.
  • 8 minor factions.
  • 22 ship types.
  • 12 planet types.
  • 100+ technologies.
  • 100+ anomalies.
  • 9 victory conditions.
  • 4 map generators.

It released recently with Linux support and has a demo available too.

Release Date: 8th February 2026
Platform: 🐧 Native Linux
Official links:Steam
Article taken from GamingOnLinux.com.
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I am the owner of GamingOnLinux. After discovering Linux back in the days of Mandrake in 2003, I constantly checked on the progress of Linux until Ubuntu appeared on the scene and it helped me to really love it. You can reach me easily by emailing GamingOnLinux directly.
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1 comment

Jarmer 2 hours ago
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huh this seems perfect for me. The time commitment is pretty much the only reason I don't play more of these. Well, and the insanely steep learning curve. But if the time commitment is softer on this one, could be awesome.
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