First Class: All Aboard the Orient Express!
- Designer Helmut Ohley
- Publisher Hans im Glück , 999 Games , Arclight Games , Broadway Toys LTD , Devir
- Illustration Michael Menzel
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In First Class, players build their own railway network and luxurious train cars to serve wealthy passengers. Each round, you pick actions from a limited set of cards to expand your routes towards Constantinople. Different action decks provide varied challenges and strategies. The game blends card and board game elements, visually representing your growing railway empire.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for enthusiasts and expert players aged 14 and up, First Class offers complex strategy and variable gameplay. Suitable for 2 to 4 players with about 80 minutes per session, it fits well into a game evening. Experience with set collection and drafting mechanics is beneficial due to the tactical planning involved.
How It Works
First Class uses Open Drafting where players choose from available cards to build and upgrade train cars. Set Collection rewards you for gathering specific card sets that grant bonuses or points. The variable setup with interchangeable action decks ensures each game presents new challenges and strategies. Gradually, you develop your railway line to score the most fame points.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Helmut Ohley, First Class was nominated for the 2016 Golden Geek Best Strategy Board Game. Its combination of Set Collection, Open Drafting, and variable setup delivers high replayability. The theme immerses players in the world of the Orient Express without being a strict train simulation.
Awards
2017
2017
2016
- 2016 Jocul Anului în România Advanced — Finalist
- 2016 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
- 2016 Swiss Gamers Award — Nominated
Pro
- High replayability with variable action decks
- Combination of Set Collection and Open Drafting
- Strategic depth for enthusiasts and experts
- Atmospheric Orient Express theme
Contra
- No solo mode (2-4 players only)
- Approximate 80-minute playtime requires patience
- Complexity suited for experienced players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in the early 20th century when rail was the elite's preferred transport, luxury lines like the Orient Express catered to business tycoons, diplomats, and royalty traveling from Europe to Constantinople.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on choosing your actions carefully and experiment with different strategies before committing to one path.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
First Class supports 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 80 minutes, plus some time for setup.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is best suited for enthusiasts and experts familiar with set collection and drafting mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
First Class stands out by combining variable action decks with open drafting, making each game unique.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and minimum age of 14, it is more suitable for experienced players.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Open Drafting, Set Collection, and variable setup defines its gameplay.
Fazit
First Class is recommended for players who enjoy strategic card games with variable scenarios. Those who have patience for longer sessions and complex planning will find depth and variety here.
