You’ll find this in the collection, Deep Navigation.
I get the distinct feeling with this short story that Alastair was just having some fun with an idea. And why not?
Basically, there’s a game that involves some newly discovered, alien lifeform that the solar system’s best gamers are invited to play. There’s also a bit of politics involved, with the goodies v baddies, evil corporation thing going on in the background as well.
It’s ok, only 4 stars for this instead of Alastair’s usual 5, but like i said, this one just seemed like he decided to have some fun for a change.
Next up on the Alastair Reynolds timeline, from 1998, it’s On the Oodnadatta.
Bye for now.
Available in the collections, 
Available in the collections, 
Available in the collections, 
Available in the collections,