China Rails (2007) Board Game

China Rails is a board game that was released in 2007 by designer Drew Perkett. It is part of the popular Crayon Rail System series of games, which are known for their strategic gameplay and economic themes. In China Rails, players take on the role of railroad tycoons competing to build the most profitable rail network across China.

Game Components of China Rails

Game board featuring a hexagon grid map of China

Railroad track pieces

Train tokens

Crayons for drawing routes on the board

Money tokens

Station markers

How To Setup China Rails

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Each player picks a color and takes their corresponding train tokens, crayon, and money tokens.

Randomly determine the starting player.

Place station markers on the designated cities on the board.

Distribute starting money to each player.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In China Rails, players take turns drawing railroad tracks on the board to connect cities and deliver goods. The objective is to build the most profitable network by connecting cities with high demand for goods and efficiently delivering cargo to earn money. Players can also invest in other players’ routes to earn a share of their profits.

Player Experience

Pros:

Strategic gameplay that rewards long-term planning

Engaging economic theme with opportunities for player interaction

Replayability due to variable board setup and player strategies

Cons:

Lengthy playing time may not be suitable for all players

Learning curve for new players to grasp game mechanics and strategies

Limited player interaction outside of investing in other players’ routes

Personal Thoughts on China Rails

China Rails offers a deep and immersive experience for players who enjoy economic and transportation-themed games. The build quality of the components is solid, and the artwork by Mayfair Games adds to the thematic immersion. While the game may not appeal to all players due to its lengthy playing time and complex strategy, it is a worthwhile addition to any board game collection.

In terms of pricing and availability, China Rails can be found both new and used online through various retailers. The game falls into the medium to high price range, but the amount of gameplay and strategic depth it offers justifies the cost for enthusiasts of the genre.

For those who enjoy games like Ticket to Ride or Power Grid, China Rails is definitely worth your time. It is best suited for players who enjoy deep strategy and economic themes in their board games. However, gamers who prefer shorter playing times or lighter gameplay may want to skip this one in favor of other options.

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