Show HN: NETWAR – hacker MMO with 15-second card duels on a shared hex map

NETWAR is a beta hacker-themed MMO built around a shared hex map where players deploy a named Main Core, claim territory, and compete with other operators. New players can first try a training duel that uses the live capture rules without risking anything. In combat, one player acts as the defender, using ICE to withstand attack waves and keep TRACE below its limit; the attacker builds BREACH toward capturing the target. Duels are card-based, played in short rounds, and the game also offers encounters with computer-controlled defenses. A new core receives 48 hours of shield protection, and players must deploy within a selected country.

Between fights, a safehouse lets operators assemble attack decks and configure an automated defense grid. Loadouts are limited to ten cards and 16 GB of RAM, with different card styles supporting aggression, defense, disruption, and other strategies. Scanning, raiding, hardware, energy, heat, reputation, and a black market add tactical and progression systems. The interface presents the world as persistent: territory, rivals, and participation in a syndicate war carry over beyond individual duels. Registration requires only an operator name initially; email or Discord can be linked for account recovery. The game describes itself as free and says donations do not buy territory, cards, energy, scans, RAM, or other gameplay advantages.