Summary
Iron Arena is a Chess-like game played on a 9×9 board . The key differences versus Chess are:
- Each player chooses from 3 distinct piece sets (Clockwork, Blades, and Axiom factions), resulting in 9 possible match-ups.
- Some pieces can activate special abilities after moving (Recall, Slash, Attract, Burn).
- Faction-specific end game mechanics replace promotions (Timeout, Assassinate, Detonate).
Starting position for a Clockwork vs Blades game
Introducing the Three Factions
Clockwork
Representing industry and artistry.
Father Time
Hands
Dial
Pendulum
Spring
Gear
Cog
Blades
Representing military might.
The Mistress
Sword
Axe
Sabres
Sickle
Dagger
Axiom
Representing science and innovation.
The Scientist
Torch
Telescope
Magnet
Scales
Phial
Example Special Moves
A Magnet uses Attract to get The Scientist out of trouble
A Phial reaches the end row and Detonates
What’s next
- Join the game development Discord: address TBC
- Contact the developer: address TBC
- Game launch expected in January 2026