Rails to the South Pole
- Designer Brian Blume
- Publisher The Train Gamers Gazette
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Rails to the South Pole, players build their own railway networks on a hexagonal grid, transporting various loads like Fuel, Penguins, and Research Equipment. Starting with limited funds, players expand their tracks by delivering goods to cities. The game uses the Crayon Rail System and features higher terrain costs due to snow and ice, requiring careful planning. Game length depends on player count, roughly 20 minutes per player.
Who Is This Game For?
Suitable for 2 to 4 players aged 8 and up, Rails to the South Pole is a family-level economic train game. With a playtime around 60 minutes, it requires moderate patience and some familiarity with economic games, but remains accessible to newcomers.
How It Works
Core mechanics include Crayon Rail System, Hexagon Grid, Network and Route Building, and Pick-up and Deliver. Players draw track segments connecting cities on a hex map. Delivering six types of loads earns money to expand networks. Terrain affects building costs, with snow and mountains increasing expenses. The goal is to reach $150 million in capital.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Brian Blume, Rails to the South Pole belongs to the Empire Builder Rail Games series by Mayfair. It features the classic Crayon Rail System inviting players to draw and expand their own rail networks. Although it has no recorded awards, its unique high terrain costs simulate the challenging Antarctic environment.
Pro
- Part of the Empire Builder Rail Games series
- Uses Crayon Rail System for custom track design
- Strategic challenge with increased terrain costs
- Relatively short playtime around 60 minutes
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Basic components originally photocopied
- Relatively simple graphics and production
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a snowy, icy South Pole region where players build railways through harsh terrain like mountains and ice fields to transport various cargo.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on efficiently expanding your rail network and combining different cargo types to increase your capital.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Rails to the South Pole is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Game time is approximately 20 minutes per player, totaling around 40 to 80 minutes depending on player count.
What prior experience do I need?
It is a family-level economic train game; some experience with train games helps but is not required.
How does this compare to similar games?
Rails to the South Pole uses the Crayon Rail System with higher terrain costs due to snow and ice, adding planning complexity.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, it is suitable for players aged 8 and up who enjoy economic train games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The Crayon Rail System allows players to draw their own railway tracks on a hexagonal map.
Fazit
Rails to the South Pole is recommended for fans of economic train games with moderate complexity. Players who enjoy network expansion and transport mechanics will find it engaging, while casual players might find the economic elements challenging.
