# Power Grid: Middle East/South Africa

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2019
- **BGG Rating**: 8.0
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 2-6 (Best with: 4, 5)
- **Duration**: 120 min
- **Weight**: 3.00 / 5
- **Designers**: Friedemann Friese
- **Artists**: Lars-Arne "Maura" Kalusky
- **Publishers**: 2F-Spiele, Rio Grande Games, Swan Panasia Co., Ltd.
- **Categories**: Economic, Expansion for Base-game, Industry / Manufacturing
- **Mechanics**: Auction / Bidding, Market, Network and Route Building

## Verdict
Great for Power Grid fans seeking a resource and strategy challenge.Variety of energy sourcesResource management challengeStrategic mapInternational interactionRequires prior knowledgeLong game timeBulky componentsRECOMMENDED

## Description
Power Grid: Middle East / South Africa brings two new map cards that expand the familiar universe of the base game. Instead of just connecting cities, you now have to deal with the scarcity of oil and natural gas that characterizes the region. At the start, the game offers a generous stock of oil and gas, but as the phases progress these resources run out and you need to bet on nuclear, recycling, and even wind power plants. South Africa, on the other hand, is dominated by an energy consortium that produces 90% of its electricity from coal, but also has nuclear and green plants that can be exploited. The map includes six international links, opening the possibility to expand the network beyond the country’s borders. Players continue to compete for the cheapest power generation, but now must balance the cost of acquiring plants with fuel availability. The expansion keeps the classic auction, fuel purchase, and network building mechanics, but adds a layer of long‑term strategy: when and where to shift energy sources. The game remains accessible to beginners but requires tactical thinking to cripple opponents’ economies. If you love Power Grid and want to test new scenarios that demand constant adaptation, this expansion will blow your mind. Plus, the theme of oil crisis and the transition to renewable energy add relevance and freshness to the classic.

## FAQ
### How many players can play?
2 to 6 players.

### What is the average playtime?
Between 120 and 120 minutes, depending on experience.

### Is the expansion difficult for beginners?
No, it keeps the classic mechanics and can be learned quickly.

### What new components are included?
New maps, energy cards, and international connection pieces.

### Who is this expansion for?
For Power Grid fans who want to test resource scarcity scenarios and new energy sources.

### Does the expansion change the base game rules?
No, it only adds new maps and energy options.

### Is there a strategic advantage to choosing a particular map?
Yes, each map offers different connection opportunities and energy sources, affecting long‑term strategy.

## Price Comparison
### Best International Offers
- **BoardGamePrices.com**: $ 14.46 (https://boardgameprices.com/item/go?source=A&storeitemid=6667292&utm_source=boardgamesbot.com)
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