8.8
rating
Ludopedia
8.1
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you're a fan of heavy euros with intense indirect interaction and a breathtaking planning challenge, Barrage is right up your alley! Get ready to manage resources impeccably and master the flow of water.
Highlights
- Innovative wheel mechanic
- Intense indirect interaction
- Deep strategic planning
- Immersive and unique theme
- High-quality components
Keep in mind
- Steep learning curve
- Can be punishing
- Long playtime
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Learn How to Play Step by Step
Check out our interactive rules guide and exclusive illustrated infographic.
Access Rules Guide
In a dystopian 1930s future, humanity has depleted fossil fuels, and now hydroelectric power is the sole source capable of fueling relentless industrial progress. In Barrage, you step into the shoes of one of four major international companies, vying for control over river flows in a contested Alpine region. Your goal? To construct imposing dams, raise them to increase water storage capacity, and channel this vital energy through pressure tunnels to your powerhouses, generating electricity. The game unfolds over five intense rounds, where you must balance personal contracts with the demands of a competitive power track. Resource management is crucial, especially with the innovative 'construction wheel.' Here, your action tokens and resources are locked and only return after a full rotation of the wheel, demanding impeccable planning. Furthermore, water is a shared and highly contested resource. You'll need to intercept and store as much as possible, strategically building dams – upstream ones are expensive but can block flow for opponents. Raise your dams and construct long tunnels to divert water to your powerhouses. Water is never consumed, only used to generate power and then released, so intelligent positioning of your structures is essential to reclaim water diverted by yourself and other players. Recruit engineers, upgrade your machinery, and construct unique-effect buildings to customize your strategy and secure victory in this engineering and management challenge.
GALLERY
12 photos · from the community
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
In English
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Game in a Nutshell - Barrage (how to play)
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Barrage - Basic Strategy Guide
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Game in a Nutshell - Barrage solo rules
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Preview and Interview (German)
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Barrage - How to play - Board game Arena (BGA) teach
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How to Play Barrage in 15 Minutes
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Preview und Vorstellung
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BARRAGE | Boardgame Tutorial | Cranio Creations
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Barrage Rules Challenge
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Ten Minute Teach - Barrage from Cranio Creations
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BARRAGE: In-game Tutorial and Complete 2-Player Playthrough
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Barrage - Overview
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Cranio Creations, CrowD Games, Delta Vision Publishing, Feuerland Spiele, Galápagos Jogos, Game Harbor
Designer
Simone Luciani, Tommaso Battista
Artist
Antonio De Luca, Mauro Alocci, Roman Roland Kuteynikov
Is Barrage a complex game? Who is it suitable for?
Yes, Barrage is considered a highly complex game (BGG weight of 4.11/5). It is ideal for experienced players who enjoy heavy euros, with lots of optimization, long-term planning, and indirect interaction. It is not recommended for board game beginners.
How many players can play Barrage, and what's the best player count?
Barrage can be played by 1 to 4 players. While it works well at all counts, many consider the experience to shine brightest with 3 or 4 players, where the competition for water and board spaces becomes more intense and strategic.
What is the average playtime for a game of Barrage?
A game of Barrage typically lasts between 90 and 180 minutes, depending on the player count and familiarity with the rules. For your first game, allow extra time for explanation and adaptation.
Are the components in Barrage of good quality?
Yes, Barrage is known for its high-quality components. The original edition and reprints usually come with sturdy pieces, well-illustrated boards, and an overall production that enhances the gaming experience.
Are there any worthwhile expansions for Barrage?
Yes, 'The Leeghwater Project' expansion is highly praised by the community. It adds a fifth player, new companies, special buildings, and a new 'external works' mechanic, further deepening strategies without overly complicating the base game.
Is language dependency an issue in Barrage?
No, Barrage has low language dependency. Most components are iconic, and text is minimal, primarily found in the rulebook and some contract or building cards. With a rulebook in your language, the game is fully accessible.