Prairie Railroads

About this board game

Prairie Railroads is a board game for 3–5 players that takes about 60 minutes, set during America’s westward expansion across the Great Plains.

As railroads push west from the Mississippi, hardy pioneers build towns and cities, raise cattle, and grow wheat and other crops. The railroads are essential for carrying this bounty to the hungry East, creating an expanding market filled with opportunity.

Players take the roles of investors and railroad Presidents, competing to capitalize on this explosive development. Six major railroads are funded by aggressive investors seeking to get rich as the lines advance into new territory.

• Invest in and compete through six major railroads.
• Connect the developing Great Plains with the hungry East.
• Respond to organically growing markets and emerging opportunities.

Success in Prairie Railroads depends on balancing time versus money. Acting quickly can matter, but the changing market demands careful judgment about where and when to commit resources.

Because the markets continue to grow organically, the most valuable opportunities are not always obvious at the start. Players must recognize savvy openings, react to the developing situation, and decide how aggressively to pursue their interests.

Released in 1999, Prairie Railroads combines a westward expansion setting with competitive investment and railroad development. Its focus on shifting markets and calculated timing gives every decision weight as players strive to gain the greatest possible share of the growing venture.