Following extensive discussion in Discord, the following joint resolution was adopted with regards to alloys and exotic materials:
The proposal is as follows: Exotic resources will be able to replace parts. If you have a double-bladed axe, and it costs 4 Ore, then replacing one blade with aluminum will lead to a cost of 2 Ore (2 Al). It will also give the benefit, of course, of the axe being lighter and weaker, because Aluminum is not as strong as steel in this context. All other exotics will work the same way, with the exception of alloys. If you alloy something (Manganese steel) you keep the half the affected Ore cost while gaining the cost and abilities of the alloyed exotic. For instance, taking our 4 Ore axe, you then make one blade out of manganese steel. It now costs 3 Ore (1 Mn), as you use some steel and some manganese to make a blade that costs 2 units of metal. If you lack manganese and still want to use it, then you can pay, instead, 5 Ore to get a double-headed axe with one mangalloy (Manganese and steel alloy) blade and one steel blade.
Warning: This could retroactively make some stuff cheaper. Not sure if it's a lot of stuff though.
We, from Discord, agreed this will not retroactively break existing balance, and might improve the quality of game for everyone. In the interests of making things more (Less?) even and fun (!!FUN!!), the undersigned (Is the lawyer slang necessary? No, but it sounds better!) agree to this resolution.
Madman198237
NikolaAnicic007
Mandemon
Azzuro