Pipeline

Capstone Games, Game Harbor, Maldito Games · Board game · 2019
2–4 · best 3 60–120 min Weight 3.9/5
8.0 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Buy
8.0 rating Ludopedia
7.5 rating BGG
Our Verdict

A dream for those who love heavy economic games and logistics with an engaging spatial puzzle.

Highlights
  • Addictive network building puzzle
  • Deep and realistic economic simulation
  • Competitive indirect market interaction
  • Thematic integration of components
Keep in mind
  • Quite a steep learning curve
  • Language dependency for some cards
FOR GENRE FANS
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About the game
Imagine a scenario where the government, overwhelmed by bureaucracy and inefficiency, decides to privatize the entire energy sector. That's the starting point for Pipeline. The oil refining system was a mess, unable to keep up with soaring global standards and demand. Now, the industry is open for business, and it's your turn to capitalize on the opportunity.

In this game, you step into the shoes of an entrepreneur starting an oil company. The core of the experience lies in designing your refinery: you'll need to strategically build a pipeline network, connecting processing stages to maximize efficiency. It's more than just placing pipes; it's a logistical puzzle where every tile matters in transforming crude oil into high-value products.

However, engineering is only half the battle. The economic side is where the real tension lies. You'll engage in commodity speculation, keeping a close eye on the market to buy raw materials at the lowest price and sell your refined products when the market peaks. To gain an edge over your rivals, you can hire specialists who provide valuable perks, giving you a competitive advantage in various aspects of your operation.

The real challenge is balancing economic management with physical construction. If you focus solely on finances and neglect your infrastructure, your production will stall. Conversely, having the world's best refinery is useless if you can't navigate the market effectively. Victory belongs to the player who can seamlessly weave together perfect logistics with financial cunning. Get ready for a heavy game where long-term strategy and adaptability are the keys to dominating the energy sector.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC
WHERE TO BUY
Finding best prices...
Game details

Families

Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Misc: LongPack Games Theme: Oil / Gas / Petroleum
Publisher Capstone Games, Game Harbor, Maldito Games, sternenschimmermeer
Designer Ryan Courtney
Artist Ian O'Toole
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game very complex?
Yes, it's considered an 'expert' level game. There are many rules and the economic management is demanding, so it's recommended for experienced gamers.
How long does a game take?
Expect to spend between 60 to 120 minutes. The duration varies based on the number of players and their familiarity with the rules.
How many players can play?
From 2 to 4 players. It works well in any configuration, though market competition gets more intense with more players.
Is there a language barrier?
Yes, there is moderate language dependency. You will likely need a translation spreadsheet or translated cards to understand all the details.
What is the main focus of the game?
The game balances the construction of a pipeline network (spatial puzzle) with price speculation in the market (economy).