Zorphwar

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Zorphwar is a closed-end, computer-moderated play-by-mail space war for eight players. It was published in 1980 by Zorph Enterprises and designed by Mike Shefler. In the game, each player runs fleets built from a base ship-factory on a 256-by-256 grid. The goal is to destroy enemy ships and score points; the player with the highest total wins. Play is by mail or email, using instructions, order sheets, turn results, and paper and pencil.

Key features:
- Eight players control customizable fleets.
- Ships come in types such as Scouts, Escorts, Cutters, Lasers, Harriers, Kamikazes, Repulsors, Juggernauts, and Base Ships, each with different costs, energy, speed, weapons, and special abilities.
- Points are earned for destroying enemy ships; the top scorer wins.

Development and legacy:
- Shefler began coding in 1974 after being inspired by an early Star Trek computer game and a 1979 article that inspired the title.
- The game had early growing pains due to no playtesting, leading to rule and program tweaks.
- About 18 full games were played before Zorph Enterprises announced its closure in late 1985 for lack of players. Zorphwar II was planned.

Reception:
- The Space Gamer called it fast-paced and a good value, though not ideal for role-players or players who want lots of diplomacy.
- Flagship described it as highly challenging to win, with a maneuverable movement system on a torus-shaped playing surface.
- PBM Universal called it the most tactically demanding PBM design at the time, requiring strong analytical skill and time at the calculator.