# Railways of Portugal: Homage to Pombal

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2019
- **BGG Rating**: 6.9
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 2-4
- **Duration**: 90-120 min
- **Weight**: —
- **Publishers**: Eagle-Gryphon Games
- **Categories**: Expansion for Base-game, Trains, Transportation
- **Mechanics**: Auction / Bidding, Network and Route Building, Open Drafting, Pick-up and Deliver, Tile Placement

## Verdict
Fans of a simple twist that can change the game will love this!Fun cube collectionLightweight, practical add‑onSeamless integration with the coreModerate language dependencyMinimal component impactHIGHLY RECOMMENDED

## Description
Railways of Portugal: Homage to Pombal is an expansion that adds a special touch to the beloved core game, bringing an extra starting card and disks for each player. The idea is simple: the products delivered in Lisbon are placed on the player's disk, and the first to collect four cubes earns three bonus points. The objective keeps the essence of the base game—building efficient routes, negotiating through auctions, and optimizing the railway network—while adding a cuboid collection element that creates a new layer of strategy and competition. The auction mechanic remains alive, now with the option to choose which cubes to collect, while route building remains the beating heart of the game. The expansion requires few extra components: just the disks and the starting card, making it a lightweight and practical addition for those who already own the main game. If you love the idea of a simple bonus that can turn the tide, Homage to Pombal will surprise you. It’s perfect for those looking for a shorter, dynamic experience without losing the strategic depth that makes Railways of Portugal so beloved. The expansion also introduces a moderate language dependency, as the cards need translation or you can use a translated spreadsheet to keep everything flowing smoothly.

## FAQ
### How many players is the expansion suitable for?
It works best with 2 to 4 players, just like the base game.

### How long does a game last with the expansion?
The game stays between 90 and 120 minutes, almost the same as the core game.

### Does the expansion increase game complexity?
No, the auction and route‑building mechanics remain the same; the only new element is the cube collection.

### What new components does the expansion add?
An extra starting card and a disk for each player; nothing else.

### Do I need translated cards?
Yes, there is a moderate language dependency. You can use translated cards or a translated spreadsheet to keep things running smoothly.

### Is the expansion compatible with the base game?
Yes, it was specifically designed for Railways of Portugal and integrates seamlessly.

### What is the purpose of the cube collection?
The player who first collects four cubes earns three bonus points, adding an extra layer of competition.