Steam
- Designer Martin Wallace
- Publisher Mayfair Games , Devir , Edge Entertainment , Hobby World , Phalanx Games B.V.
- Illustration John Austin , Jared Blando , Craig Hamilton , Christopher Moeller
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Steam, you build railroad tracks and deliver goods over a changing network of rails and stations. You upgrade your trains, improve towns, and aim for the longest, most profitable deliveries. The game features a double-sided board depicting either the northeastern USA or the Rhine-Ruhr region in Europe, supporting different player counts. Steam combines auction, network building, and delivery mechanics in a complex economic strategy.
Who Is This Game For?
Steam targets experienced players interested in economic and train-themed strategy games. With a playtime around 90 minutes, it demands patience and strategic planning. Suitable for players aged 10 and up who are familiar with auction and network-building mechanics.
How It Works
Players bid in auctions for track segments and manage loans to invest. Core mechanics include network and route building, pick-up and delivery of goods, and tile placement for track construction. Ownership of routes affects income and victory points as you expand and optimize your railway network.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Martin Wallace, Steam won the Lys Passioné Award in 2010. It is closely related to Age of Steam but features modified mechanics and a double-sided board with maps of North America and Europe. It was also nominated for multiple Golden Geek and International Gamers Awards.
Awards
2009, 2010
2009
- 2010 Lys Passioné — Winner
- 2009 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Detailed economic train-themed gameplay
- Combination of auction, network building, and delivery
- Double-sided board with different regional maps
- Winner of the 2010 Lys Passioné Award
Contra
- Requires experience with complex mechanics
- Approximate 90-minute playtime may be long for casual players
- Not suitable for fewer than 3 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set during the early railway age in the northeastern USA and the Rhine-Ruhr region of Europe, reflecting the dawn of industrial railway expansion.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding auction mechanics and network building before exploring advanced strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Steam is designed for 3 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 90 minutes, plus setup time.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex strategy games and mechanics like auctions is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
Steam is a modified version of Age of Steam with new artwork and a double-sided board.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and playtime, Steam is better suited for experienced players than families with children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Auction/Bidding, Network and Route Building, and Pick-up and Deliver mechanics defines Steam.
Fazit
Steam is recommended for experienced gamers seeking a complex economic train game with auction elements. Beginners may find the complexity challenging.
