Lightning Rounds are special short rounds, typically lasting one-two weeks, with special rules that differ from the normal Rounds.
System size is larger than normal rounds.
Chaos Mode for the entire round.
No scores will be archived.
Short signup period.
No group signups.
All planets are Terran.
All personalities are Gambler.
Startup values are higher than normal rounds.
No alliances.
No rogue asteroids.
No wonders of the galaxy.
No vacation robot.
No changes after signup (reset to initial values is still allowed during pregame).
Build times are very short.
Research is fast.
Newbie time is 24-28 hours.