Brass: Birmingham

Brass: Birmingham is a fantastic economic strategy game that takes the foundation of its predecessor, Brass, and builds upon it in exciting ways. It's a game about industrial tycoons competing in Birmingham during the Industrial Revolution, vying for dominance through clever resource management, network building, and strategic decision-making.

The game's two-part structure, encompassing both the canal and rail eras, adds depth and strategic complexity. I found myself constantly adapting my strategies to the changing market demands and opportunities. The variety of actions, including building industries, establishing connections, developing your holdings, selling goods, and taking loans, keeps things engaging and constantly presents new challenges.

I particularly enjoyed the "Scout" action, a unique addition to the game that offers a chance to acquire wild cards for industries and locations, adding a layer of unpredictability and exciting possibilities. The game feels well-balanced, with a delicate equilibrium between making choices that benefit your own empire and potentially hindering your opponents. This element of strategic tension makes every decision feel meaningful.

The game can be a bit daunting at first, with its intricate rules and myriad possibilities. However, once you grasp the basics, it opens up a world of tactical possibilities. The game truly shines when you start to understand the intricacies of how your actions can influence not only your own success but also your opponents' progress. I found the rules to be clear and well-written, but a few online tutorials certainly helped speed up the learning process for my group.

Brass: Birmingham is a game that demands strategic thinking, planning, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. It's not for casual gamers but those who enjoy complex, multi-layered strategy games will be well-rewarded. The game is beautifully crafted, with high-quality components and stunning artwork that really immerses you in the industrial revolution era. The game itself is so well-designed and replayable that there's a vibrant competitive scene surrounding it.

Although some reviewers have mentioned issues with packaging and shipping, I fortunately had a positive experience with Roxley's customer service. I highly recommend this game to anyone who enjoys deep strategy games and is looking for a challenging and rewarding experience. It's a game that will stay with you long after you've finished playing.