Dutch InterCity

If you enjoy train games that get straight to the point and don't forgive mistakes, Dutch InterCity is a gem every 'cube rails' fan needs to check out. Set against the backdrop of the privatization of Dutch railways, the game puts you and your friends in the shoes of ruthless investors. Forget luck: here, it's all about your ability to read the market, buy the right stocks at the right time, and ensure your track network is the most profitable of them all.

The dynamic is both elegant and brutal. In each round, players use their starting capital to acquire shares in five different railroad companies. The catch is that the directors of these companies are the players themselves, who decide where tracks will be built. This creates a delightful—and sometimes mean—interaction where you can build routes that block your opponents' plans or force the growth of the companies where you hold the most stock. Since there is no luck involved, every construction decision directly impacts stock value and, consequently, the dividends you receive at the end of the round.

The game is fast, lasting less than an hour, making it perfect for those nights when you want an intense strategic challenge but don't have all night to play. It’s a title that requires long-term vision, but also sharp tactical skills to react to what other players are doing. The simplicity of the components hides a strategic depth that will make you want to play one game after another, always trying to optimize your investment portfolio and ensure that, by the end of the privatization process, you are the wealthiest tycoon in the Netherlands. If you like economic games where interaction is high and board space is fiercely contested, Dutch InterCity is a sure-fire choice for your collection.