Zug nach Westen
- Designer Michael Blumöhr
- Publisher Hans im Glück , Mattel, Inc.
- Illustration Claudia-Sabine Lorenz
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players build railroad tracks on a modular board of face-down hex tiles, revealing routes as they go to move their trains from Chicago to Kansas City. Dice rolls determine train movement, while route construction requires tactical decisions. The interplay of luck and strategy shapes each game as players race to be the first to reach their destination.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets families and casual gamers aged 8 and up interested in railroad themes. With a playtime of approximately 45 minutes, it suits game nights and offers medium complexity without demanding prior experience.
How It Works
Using a modular board made of hex tiles, players reveal track segments or river crossings and build a network of routes. Dice rolling dictates how far trains move along the constructed track. The objective is to reach Kansas City first by combining Network and Route Building with Dice Rolling and Modular Board mechanics.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Michael Blumöhr and published in 1987 by Hans im Glück, Zug nach Westen stands out with its modular hex tile board and mix of dice-driven movement and track building. Set in the American West, it belongs to the 'Country: USA' family and offers a distinctive blend of tactical tile placement and chance.
Pro
- Modular board enables varied layouts each game
- Combines dice rolling with route building
- Short playtime around 45 minutes
- Suitable for families and casual gamers aged 8+
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Simpler mechanics might lack depth for experts
- Limited to 2 to 4 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates the 19th-century expansion of the American railroad connecting Chicago to Kansas City across the Mississippi River, providing a historical backdrop for the tile-laying gameplay.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on planning your track layout early and make effective use of dice outcomes to move your train efficiently.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Zug nach Westen is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 45 minutes, suitable for short to medium-length sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game has medium complexity and is accessible without prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely combines a modular hex tile board with dice-based movement and network building, differing from fixed-board train games.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, with an age recommendation of 8+, it is well-suited for family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Modular Board, Dice Rolling, and Network and Route Building defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Zug nach Westen is recommended for players who enjoy medium-length train games blending luck and strategy. Its accessibility makes it a good fit for families and casual gamers.


















