8.6
rating
Ludopedia
7.9
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
If you're a fan of heavy economic train games, Age of Steam is a classic that can't be missing from your collection. Get ready to burn some brain cells!
Highlights
- Deep economic strategy
- Intense player interaction
- Very high replayability
- Challenging resource management
- Varied maps and unique scenarios
Keep in mind
- Steep learning curve
- Can be punishing for mistakes
- Considerable playtime
About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready for a journey back in time with Age of Steam, a classic train game that puts you in charge of a railway company in 19th-century United States. The era of steam locomotives is in full swing, and your mission is to build a rail network that will transform the American economy, connecting growing cities like Pittsburgh, Cincinnati, and Chicago. But don't think it will be easy! Competition is fierce, and every decision matters. You'll need a sharp mind to manage your finances, decide on the most profitable routes, and outmaneuver your rivals in delivering goods. Can you build the most extensive network and still have the most powerful locomotives, all while paying your demanding creditors? The game is a true masterclass in strategic planning and player interaction. Each round is divided into distinct phases that keep everyone engaged in crucial choices, from auctions for turn order to track building and cargo delivery. And the best part: the ability to develop towns into cities ensures that every game is unique, with new strategies and challenges each time you play. It's a robust title, known for its complexity and depth, perfect for those seeking an economic and logistical challenge.
Expansions
Published additional content
Age of Steam Deluxe Expansion: Detroit Bankruptcy & Heavy Cardboard Maps
Age of Steam Deluxe Expansion: Hungary & Finland Maps
Age of Steam Deluxe Expansion: New England/Pittsburgh & Switzerland Maps
Age of Steam Deluxe: Expansion Volume I
Age of Steam Deluxe: Expansion Volume II
Age of Steam Deluxe: Expansion Volume III
Age of Steam Deluxe: Expansion Volume IV
Age of Steam Expansion #3: Scandinavia and Korea
Age of Steam Expansion: Barbados / St. Lucia
Age of Steam Expansion: Disco Inferno / Soul Train
Age of Steam Expansion: Fukushima/Chernobyl
Age of Steam Expansion: Germany & France
Age of Steam Expansion: Holland / Madagascar
Age of Steam Expansion: Human Body/Synapses
Age of Steam Expansion: Jamaica / Puerto Rico
Age of Steam Expansion: Mexico & China
Age of Steam Expansion: Mississippi Steamboats / Golden Spike
Age of Steam Expansion: Montréal Métro
Age of Steam Expansion: Moon and Berlin Wall
Age of Steam Expansion: Scotland
Age of Steam Expansion: South America / South Africa
Age of Steam Expansion: The Zombie Apocalypse
Age of Steam Expansion: Vermont, New Hampshire & Central New England
Age of Steam: Deluxe Expansion – France & Poland Maps
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Rules videos
Learn by watching before you open the box
In English
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Heavy Cardboard Teaches Age of Steam & Full Playthrough! (Base map **Rust Belt**)
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Age of Steam Learn to Play
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Age of Steam - France 6-player Tutorial and Playthrough with Gaming Rules!
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Benjamin Blabs about Age of Steam
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Age of Steam Deluxe : Storage of Arcylic Tiles
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Age of Steam Deluxe - Tutorial and Playthrough - 3-player Pittsburgh
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Age of Steam Playthrough 4p
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Age of Steam Teach
Rules manual
Official PDF file
Best player count
BGG community vote
1
OK
2
OK
3
REC
4
BEST
5
BEST
6
REC
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Warfrog Games, Arclight Games, CZ Cloud Soft Co. Ltd, Delta Vision Publishing, Eagle-Gryphon Games, Enjoy Game
Designer
John Bohrer, Martin Wallace
Artist
Ian O'Toole, Paul Niemeyer, Peter Dennis, Sean Brown
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
14,336owners
3,404wishlist
582want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
What is the complexity of Age of Steam?
Age of Steam is considered a highly complex game (BGG weight of 3.86/5). It demands deep strategic planning, careful financial management, and the ability to adapt to other players' actions. It's not for beginners!
How many players can participate in a game?
The base game supports 1 to 6 players. However, the experience can vary significantly depending on the number of participants and the chosen map, as some Deluxe editions offer specific scenarios for 1 or 2 players.
What is the average playtime for a game?
A game of Age of Steam typically lasts between 120 and 180 minutes. Be prepared to dedicate a few hours to your gaming session, especially with more players or on more complex maps.
What makes Age of Steam different from other train games?
Age of Steam stands out for its tight economy and brutal interactivity. The auction mechanic for turn order, the need to manage loans, and the constant struggle for lucrative cargo and routes make it a unique and very strategic challenge.
Do I need any expansions to enjoy the game?
Not necessarily. The base game already offers a complete and challenging experience. However, there are numerous maps and expansions that add variety and new scenarios, which is great for those seeking replayability and new challenges.
Is it a game with a lot of luck?
While there is dice rolling to determine the production of some goods, Age of Steam is predominantly a strategy game. Luck is a minor factor compared to your ability to plan, optimize, and adapt to opponents' decisions.
Who will enjoy Age of Steam?
This game is ideal for experienced players who love heavy economic games, transportation simulations, and who are not afraid of fierce competition and tough financial decisions. If you enjoy deep thinking and direct interaction with other players, this one's for you!
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