Rhein: River Trade (2016) Board Game

Rhein: River Trade is a board game released in 2016, designed by Alan D’Amico and Mirco Paganessi. The game is set in the Rhine River region of Europe, where players take on the role of merchants trading goods along the river.

Game Components of Rhein: River Trade

Game board featuring the Rhein River and various transportation routes

Player boards

Transport tokens (trucks, trains, ships, planes)

Reservation tokens

Goods crates

Order cards

Money tokens

Rulebook

How To Setup Rhein: River Trade

To set up the game, players start by placing the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a player board and places it within reach. The transport tokens, reservation tokens, goods crates, and order cards are shuffled and placed according to the rules. Players receive an initial amount of money and the game is ready to begin.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Take Orders: Players pick up order cards that specify the goods and destinations.

Load Goods: Players load goods onto their trucks.

Reserve Transport Stops: Players reserve stops for their transports.

Move and Unload Transports: Players move their transports and unload goods at designated stops.

Fulfill Orders: Players fulfill their order cards.

Housekeeping: Players perform end-of-round tasks.

The game objective is to be the player with the most money at the end of the game, achieved by efficiently delivering goods to various cities along the Rhein River.

Player Experience

In **Rhein: River Trade**, players face a logistics puzzle that requires multi-turn planning and coordination. The game is marked by tough choices and the need to adapt to other players’ actions, as the reservation system can lead to strategic interactions and occasional “freeloading.” The game’s mechanics ensure that being in the lead can sometimes be a disadvantage, as other players may use up the most efficient transportation options.

Pros

Engaging Logistics Puzzle: Requires careful planning and strategy.

Interactive Gameplay: Players’ actions significantly impact each other.

Thematic Depth: Teaches players about locations along the Rhein River.

Variety in Transportation: Multiple transport options with different costs and speeds.

Cons

Complexity: Not suitable for those seeking a quick, light game.

Dependency on Other Players’ Actions: Can be frustrating if others block your ideal transports.

Steep Learning Curve: First play can take significantly longer due to the need to understand all the mechanics.

Personal Thoughts on Rhein: River Trade

**Rhein: River Trade** is ideal for players who enjoy complex logistics games with deep strategic elements. It is a great fit for those who have experience with games like *What’s Your Game?* titles, such as *ZhanGuo* and *Railroad Revolution*, but are looking for something slightly lighter. However, it may not be the best choice for those seeking a quick, casual gaming experience. If you enjoy puzzles, strategic planning, and a bit of competitive tension, this game is definitely worth considering.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.