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Age of Steam (2002) Board Game

ByMichail

Age of Steam is a board game that was first released in 2002 by Warfrog Games, designed by John Bohrer and Martin Wallace. It falls under the categories of Economic, Post-Napoleonic, Trains, and Transportation. The game has been praised for its strategic depth and challenging gameplay, making it a favorite among board game enthusiasts.

Game Components of Age of Steam

  • Six maps** on 3 double-sided game boards, including one for solo play, one for two players, and four for 3-6 players[4|.
  • Mini-sized poker chips** (22mm) replacing paper money[4|.
  • Classic wooden Track Ownership disks** in six new player colors, with optional small wooden trains (18mm) as an upgrade[4|.
  • PVC insert** with a clear plastic cover for component storage[2|.
  • Huge, heavy-duty box** to hold all components, including potentially 10 maps, 3 new supply boards, 90 poker chips, and 144 tiles.

    How To Setup Age of Steam

    Setting up Age of Steam involves several steps. First, choose the appropriate map based on the player count. Each player selects a set of Track Ownership disks and places their starting markers on the board. The goods cubes are placed on the board according to the map’s instructions. Players receive a starting amount of money in the form of poker chips. The game’s special power cards and other components are shuffled and prepared for the first round.

    Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

  • Route Building: Players build tracks to connect cities and deliver goods[4|.
  • Goods Delivery: Deliver goods from one city to another to earn income. The farther the delivery, the higher the income[4|.
  • Special Powers: Each round, players select special powers that provide temporary advantages[4|.
  • Economic Management: Players must manage their finances by issuing shares, bidding for turn order, and paying expenses[4|.
  • Objective: The goal is to accumulate the most victory points by building extensive track networks, delivering valuable goods, and managing finances effectively. Points are calculated based on income, track sections, and shares issued.

    Player Experience

    Age of Steam is known for its challenging and competitive gameplay. Players must constantly make vital decisions and interact with each other, making it a highly engaging experience. The game is famous for its tight financial management, especially in the early rounds, and features a small element of luck. The variety in maps and special powers keeps the game fresh and exciting, even after multiple plays. It is particularly enjoyable at higher player counts, where the game dynamic becomes more complex and interactive.

    Pros

  • High Replayability: Six different maps and changing special powers ensure a unique experience each time[4|.
  • Deep Strategy: Requires careful planning and economic management[4|.
  • Production Quality: The deluxe edition features high-quality components, including wooden disks and poker chips[4|.
  • Easy to Teach: Despite its complexity, the game is relatively easy to learn and teach[4!.

    Cons

  • Lengthy at Lower Player Counts: Games with fewer players can be longer and less dynamic[4|.
  • Financial Tightness: Early rounds can be very financially restrictive, which may be challenging for some players[4|.
  • Player Elimination: Players can be eliminated if they fail to manage their finances effectively, which may not appeal to everyone[4!.

    Personal Thoughts on Age of Steam

    Age of Steam is ideal for fans of strategy and economic management games, particularly those who enjoy train-themed games. It is a great option for experienced gamers looking for a challenging and competitive experience. While it may not be the best fit for casual gamers due to its complexity and financial tightness, it remains a classic and highly regarded game in the board game community. The deluxe edition’s variety and high-quality components make it a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate deep strategy and replayability[4|.

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    • Michail, a seasoned tabletop enthusiast, dives headfirst into worlds of fantasy and strategy. Whether commanding a party of adventurers through perilous dungeons or engaging in tactical showdowns on the board, Michail is the maestro of the tabletop realm. Michail's gaming table is a realm where the clatter of dice and the shuffle of cards create a symphony of strategic chaos.

    Hobby: Miniature painting guru, turning pewter into masterpieces
    Preferred Game: Dungeons & Dragons, but always up for a board game brawl

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