8.8
rating
Ludopedia
7.4
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
If you enjoy train games with a deck-building twist, Trains: Rising Sun is a fantastic choice, especially with the flexibility of its new maps!
Highlights
- Strategic deck-building
- New, varied maps
- Great for 2 players
- High replayability
- Map interaction
Keep in mind
- Can feel a bit dry
- Moderate language dependency
- Initial learning curve
Rules manual not indexed yet
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Get ready to embark on a railway journey across Japan with Trains: Rising Sun! This standalone game brings all the essence of its predecessor, Trains, but with a fresh twist and many strategic possibilities. Here, the goal is to build the most efficient and profitable railway network in the country, expanding your routes and connecting important cities. You'll manage your hand of cards, build an increasingly powerful deck, and compete to be the first to link strategic stations to secure valuable bonuses.
Trains: Rising Sun introduces an entirely new set of cards, opening up a range of fresh strategies for veterans and a great entry point for newcomers. But the real stars are the three new boards included: two of them are tailor-made for intense two-player duels, while the Nagoya map offers a complete experience for 3 to 4 participants. And the best part? You can mix this game with the original Trains, multiplying game options and ensuring almost infinite replayability. The new Route Bonus Cards, which reward the first to connect specific stations, can also be used with the base game, adding an extra layer of competition. It's your chance to become the Japanese railway magnate!
Trains: Rising Sun introduces an entirely new set of cards, opening up a range of fresh strategies for veterans and a great entry point for newcomers. But the real stars are the three new boards included: two of them are tailor-made for intense two-player duels, while the Nagoya map offers a complete experience for 3 to 4 participants. And the best part? You can mix this game with the original Trains, multiplying game options and ensuring almost infinite replayability. The new Route Bonus Cards, which reward the first to connect specific stations, can also be used with the base game, adding an extra layer of competition. It's your chance to become the Japanese railway magnate!
Gallery
Box and component photos
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
Best player count
BGG community vote
2
BEST
3
BEST
4
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Alderac Entertainment Group
Designer
Hisashi Hayashi, Steve Ellis (II)
Artist
Banu Andaru
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
3,877owners
630wishlist
179want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
What is the average playtime for Trains: Rising Sun?
A game typically takes between 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the number of players and familiarity with the rules. It's ideal for a quicker game session.
How many players can play Trains: Rising Sun?
The game is designed for 2 to 4 players. It comes with specific maps for 2 players and a larger map for 3 to 4, ensuring a good experience at any player count.
Is it a complex game for beginners?
Trains: Rising Sun has a medium complexity rating (2.43/5 on BGG). The rules are accessible, but the combination of deck-building and route planning offers strategic depth. It's easy to learn, but challenging to master.
Do I need the original Trains game to play Rising Sun?
No! Trains: Rising Sun is a standalone game and can be played independently. However, it can be combined with the base Trains game to further expand card and map options.
What are the main components of the game?
You'll find cards (for your deck and the market), station markers, rail pieces, and three double-sided map boards, along with a clear and concise rulebook.
Who is Trains: Rising Sun recommended for?
It's perfect for fans of train games, deck-building enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a strategic, medium-weight eurogame. If you enjoy planning routes and optimizing your game engine, you'll love it!
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