Age of Rail: South Africa (2011) Board Game

Age of Rail: South Africa is a standalone game in the Age of Steam series, designed by John Bohrer and published by Capstone Games in in 2011. The game is set in South Africa during the 19th century, where players take on the roles of railway entrepreneurs competing to build the most profitable rail network.

Game Components of Age of Rail: South Africa

Game boards based on South Africa, Pampas Railroads, and Pennsylvania Railroad.

Stock certificates for railroad companies.

Track pieces for building railroads.

Settlement tokens.

Dividend tokens.

Player markers.

Custom metal trains (optional enhancement).

How To Setup Age of Rail: South Africa

The game begins with an initial auction for the first shares of the railroad companies. Players bid to acquire these shares, with the funds going into the company’s treasury. After the auction, the game board is set up with the respective maps, and each player selects their starting tokens and markers.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Build Track: Unlimited action to lay down railroad tracks.

Develop Settlement: Three available actions to upgrade settlements, increasing the value of stations.

Offer Stock: Two available actions to issue new shares of railroad companies.

Pay Dividends: One available action to distribute company income to shareholders.

Game Objective

The goal is to accumulate the most money by holding shares and receiving dividend payments from railroad companies. Players take turns choosing one of the four actions, with some actions having limitations on their use. The game ends after the sixth dividend payment, with a final bonus payout based on the number of company links and shares issued.

Player Experience

In **Age of Rail: South Africa**, players embark on a financial and logistical adventure across the vast expanse of South Africa. The game requires strategic thinking and careful management of resources. Players must balance their actions to build tracks, develop settlements, issue stocks, and pay dividends, all while keeping an eye on the financial health of the railroad companies they invest in. The game promotes economic strategy and competitive play among participants.

Pros

Engaging Strategy: Combines economic management with logistical planning.

Multiple Maps: Includes additional game maps based on Pampas Railroads and Pennsylvania Railroad.

Competitive Play: Suitable for 3 to 6 players, fostering a competitive environment.

Custom Enhancements: Optional metal trains add a premium feel to the game.

Cons

Complex Rules: The game mechanics can be complex, requiring a learning curve.

Limited Actions: Certain actions have restrictions, which can limit player flexibility.

Lengthy Gameplay: The game may take several hours to complete, depending on the number of players and their strategic depth.

Personal Thoughts on Age of Rail: South Africa

**Age of Rail: South Africa** is ideal for fans of economic and strategic board games. It offers a rich and challenging experience, particularly for those who enjoy managing resources, making financial decisions, and competing against others. The game is suited for experienced board game enthusiasts who appreciate depth in gameplay mechanics and are looking for a game that requires thoughtful strategy and planning.

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