# Steam: Map Expansion #3

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2013
- **BGG Rating**: 7.6
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 2-6 (Best with: 2, 3, 4, 5)
- **Duration**: 60 min
- **Weight**: 3.82 / 5
- **Designers**: Morgan Dontanville
- **Artists**: Jared Blando, John Austin
- **Publishers**: Mayfair Games
- **Categories**: Expansion for Base-game, Trains, Transportation
- **Mechanics**: Auction / Bidding, Network and Route Building, Pick-up and Deliver, Tile Placement

## Verdict
If you already enjoy Steam, these new maps will give you more room for routes and competition.Diverse thematic mapsIncreased replay valueFamiliar mechanicsNo new rulesRequires base gameSome scenarios limited to 2‑4 playersRECOMMENDED

## Description
Steam: Map Expansion #3 adds a double‑sided board that opens fresh territories for the classic Steam game. One side, titled “Westward Ho!”, covers the western two‑thirds of the United States and supports 4‑6 players building rail routes, bidding on sections, and delivering cargo. The opposite side consists of four panels: Singapore, featuring a two‑player subway‑construction mini‑game; Japan, split into three panels that can be combined for a 3‑4 player map; and Hokkaido, a standalone panel for intense two‑player duels. All maps retain the core mechanics – auction/bidding, network and route building, pick‑up and deliver, and tile placement – but adjust scale and player count to fit the region. Existing track pieces and markers are reused, while new tiles give freedom to lay fresh routes. Playtime averages around 60 minutes, with a medium complexity (weight 3.8/5), perfect for groups already comfortable with the base game who want new scenery without overhauling the rules. The expansion introduces only minor scoring tweaks and a handful of region‑specific auction cards, making integration seamless. In short, it’s a map pack that boosts replayability, letting smaller groups explore Singapore or Hokkaido, while larger groups can trek across the American West. If you love planning routes, negotiating sections, and delivering goods, this addition will feel just right.

## FAQ
### How many players can use each side of the map?
The "Westward Ho!" side supports 4‑6 players. The Singapore side is for 2 players, Hokkaido for 2, and the Japan/Hokkaido combination works for 3‑4 players.

### How long does a game with the expansion take?
Approximately 60 minutes, similar to the base game, varying with player count and chosen region.

### Do I need the base game to play this expansion?
Yes, Steam: Map Expansion #3 requires the base Steam game because it uses the same pieces and core rules.

### Does the expansion introduce new rules?
No, it only adds scoring tweaks and a few region‑specific auction cards, keeping everything compatible with the core.

### What components are included in the box?
A double‑sided board, four map panels (Singapore, Japan, Hokkaido), new track tiles, and regional auction cards.

### Is it suitable for beginners?
Recommended for players already familiar with Steam; newcomers might find the variety of maps a bit overwhelming without prior experience.

### Can I mix different maps together?
Yes, Hokkaido can be played solo or combined with the rest of Japan; the other maps are independent of each other.

## Price Comparison
### Best International Offers
- **BoardGamePrices.com**: $ 13.23 (https://boardgameprices.com/item/go?source=A&storeitemid=1420355&utm_source=boardgamesbot.com)
- **BoardGamePrices.com**: $ 14.74 (https://boardgameprices.com/item/go?source=A&storeitemid=1666041&utm_source=boardgamesbot.com)
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