Empire Express

About this board game

Empire Express is an easy-to-play railroad game for 2–4 players, with sessions lasting about 90 minutes. Players compete to create railroad empires by drawing tracks with crayons on an erasable board, then using their networks to acquire and deliver goods efficiently.

The base game features a board depicting a northeastern portion of the United States. It provides pre-programmed routes to guide players as they learn the system, while demand cards offer a straightforward way to discover the game through play.

Each player begins with the bare bones of a railroad: an empty train and track connecting some cities. Players take turns building track, operating their trains, and delivering loads. Every successful delivery earns payment from the bank, helping players accumulate a personal fortune and work toward victory.

• Draw railroad tracks with crayons on an erasable board.
• Build networks between cities and operate trains.
• Use demand cards to acquire and deliver goods.
• Earn money from the bank for each delivered load.

Empire Express shortens the learning curve with several helpful introductory features. The starting route is guided by the board, each card involves only two loads, and every demand card includes a visual pickup-and-delivery guide.

Designed as an introduction to the Empire Builder series, Empire Express focuses on the satisfying core of railroad expansion and delivery planning without overwhelming new players. Its clear starting routes and visual card information make it easier to learn while competing to build the most successful rail empire.