The Manhattan Project: Energy Empire is a standalone strategic board game set in the second half of the 20th century, during the Cold War and a period of rapid industrialization. Players take control of global powers, building their economic, industrial, and political strength through the use of various energy sources—from coal and oil to nuclear and renewable energy.

The game’s key thematic focus is not warfare, but the consequences of progress: pollution, global crises, and the challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility, giving the game a surprisingly modern and thoughtful character.

Players send workers to action spaces to gain resources, cards, and effects. They develop their own network of buildings, technologies, and projects that combine into efficient engines. Energy, workers, and raw materials are limited resources and require careful planning. Special energy dice represent different energy sources and introduce an element of flexible risk. Rapid industrialization increases pollution, which can trigger global crises that affect all players.

One of the game’s standout features is that action spaces are never completely blocked—by spending additional energy, players can use an already occupied space, reducing frustration and encouraging tactical decision-making.

The Manhattan Project: Energy Empire is a strategic masterpiece about power, progress, and responsibility that challenges players with demanding yet deeply rewarding decisions.