Apex

From BoardGameGeek:

Apex is a strategic game in which various civilizations vie for galactic dominance through influence, technological advancement, and warfare. Set in a science fiction universe unlike any you've seen before, it features truly alien civilizations, diverging from typical science fiction clichés. The game is a straightforward and minimalist 4X, taking approximately 15 minutes per player. Victory points are accumulated by controlling sectors at the end of each of the three ages. While winning doesn't necessitate engaging in war, it can yield additional points. Each age consists of five turns, during which players select a card to play from a drafted hand. Every card provides the option to pursue one of the four strategies: Evolution, Expansion, Colonization, or War, offering players a multitude of choices. Consequently, your overall strategy is not dictated by the civilization you choose or the cards you receive. It's entirely up to you whether you opt for aggressive expansion, technological improvement, war, diplomacy, or a strategic blend of these elements. Highly symmetrical, with minimal randomness and devoid of the chaos found in more intricate games, Apex poses a chess-like challenge for seasoned strategists. However, its rich universe and straightforward mechanics make it an ideal game for introducing more casual players to strategic gameplay. -description from the designer