# The Ruhr: A Story of Coal Trade

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2017
- **BGG Rating**: 6.8
- **BGG Rank**: #4606
- **Players**: 2-4 (Best with: 3, 4)
- **Duration**: 120 min
- **Weight**: 3.68 / 5
- **Designers**: Thomas Spitzer
- **Artists**: Harald Lieske
- **Publishers**: Capstone Games
- **Categories**: Economic, Environmental, Industry / Manufacturing, Nautical, Transportation
- **Mechanics**: Action Drafting, Pick-up and Deliver, Track Movement

## Verdict
If you enjoy plotting routes and trading resources, The Ruhr offers a solid strategic experience.Unique logistics blendImmersive thematic artHigh replay valueModerate learning curveLong playtimeRECOMMENDED

## Description
The Ruhr: A Story of Coal Trade transports you to the heart of the Ruhr region in the 18th century, when the Industrial Revolution was just taking its first steps. Newly discovered coal in Haspelknecht becomes the most coveted commodity, and cities and factories along the river are desperate for it. Your goal? Move coal along the winding Ruhr, overcome dams and obstacles, sell it at delivery points and, with the profit, purchase upgrades that unlock higher‑value coal. Each round begins with an action drafting phase: you pick between moving barges, building warehouses, erecting locks, or opening export routes. Then you collect the available coal, deliver it to cities or factories, and mark progress. As you sell to strategic locations you gain access to premium coal that yields more victory points. Besides selling, you can invest in blocking opponents, improve the river’s infrastructure, and even export to neighboring countries to boost your score. The game blends pick‑up‑and‑deliver with track movement, demanding route planning and resource management. Playtime is about two hours, for 2‑4 players, with a moderate complexity (weight 3.7/5). The artwork captures the industrial Ruhr landscape, and the components include detailed steam‑powered barges and coal tokens. The standalone expansion The Ohio: 1811‑1861 brings the same system to the Ohio River, adding new cards and trade options. If you enjoy economic, logistics and historical games, The Ruhr offers a deep strategic experience without being overly heavy, perfect for game nights with friends who love plotting routes and negotiating resources.

## FAQ
### How many players can play?
2 to 4 players, perfect for small groups.

### What is the typical playing time?
About 120 minutes, though it can vary with player experience.

### How complex is the game?
BGG weight 3.68/5, a medium‑level game – strategic but not overly heavy.

### What components are included?
Steam barges, coal tokens, Ruhr river board, action cards, progress markers, and infrastructure pieces like warehouses and locks.

### Do I need prior knowledge of industrial history?
No, the historical setting adds flavor, but the rules cover everything you need to play.

## Price Comparison
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