Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition
- Designer Hjalmar Hach , Lorenzo Silva
- Publisher Horrible Guild , Albi , Angry Lion Games , asmodee , CMON Global Limited
- Illustration Marta Tranquilli
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Railroad Ink, players roll dice each round to determine road and railway routes, then draw these on erasable boards to connect exits and build transport networks. The Deep Blue Edition adds rivers and lakes expansions, introducing new route types and special rules that change gameplay dynamics. Players must balance risk and safety to optimize their network and score points.
Who Is This Game For?
Railroad Ink is a medium complexity game suitable for families and casual gamers aged 8 and up. Its short playtime of about 30 minutes fits well for quick sessions or game nights. The included solo mode makes it accessible to solo players and beginners while still offering tactical depth.
How It Works
Each turn, dice with symbols for roads and rails are rolled, and all players must draw corresponding routes on their boards. Mechanics include Dice Rolling, Connections, Line Drawing, and Network and Route Building. Players aim to connect as many exits as possible while avoiding incomplete routes that cost points. Bingo-like elements add pattern completion challenges.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Hjalmar Hach and Lorenzo Silva, Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition won the 2019 5 Seasons Best International Roll&Write Game Award. Its blend of roll-and-write mechanics with erasable boards and network building distinguishes it within the genre. The Deep Blue Edition’s rivers and lakes expansions add strategic variety.
Awards
2018
- 2019 5 Seasons Best International Roll&Write Game — Winner
Pro
- Includes a solo mode
- Short playtime around 30 minutes
- Combines dice rolling with network building
- Erasable boards enable repeated play
Contra
- Limited complexity for experienced gamers
- Gameplay influenced heavily by dice luck
- Less suitable for children under 8 years
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game centers on building road and railway networks on an abstract board. The Deep Blue Edition introduces natural elements like rivers and lakes that serve as both challenges and connection opportunities in the network.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on drawing simple connections and gradually expand your network to maximize points.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition includes a solo mode for single players.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, making it great for quick sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
This medium complexity game is suitable for beginners aged 8 and up without prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Railroad Ink uniquely combines roll-and-write with network building and erasable boards, differentiating it from classic dice games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is family-friendly for ages 8 and above due to simple rules and short playtime.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Dice Rolling, Line Drawing, and Network and Route Building defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition offers a quick, accessible roll-and-write experience with meaningful tactical choices, ideal for solo players and families who enjoy dice and route-building games.
