Namibia

About this board game

Namibia is a strategy game for 3–4 players that takes about 120 minutes, placing mining corporations in colonial Namibia in 1884. Players seek diamonds, gold, silver, and copper, while building the infrastructure needed to transport these commodities to the coast.

The game board presents a map of Namibia divided into a hex grid. Access to the interior and to the ports is controlled by colonial government officials, so players must compete in auctions to secure the permissions and opportunities they need. Bribery can open valuable routes, but relying on it too heavily reduces reputation.

Players develop rail infrastructure, construct and complete mines, and prospect for ore. Railways are essential for moving commodities to ports, where they can be sold for money. Choosing when to ship is crucial, because the market can be manipulated by other players and the value of timing can shape each corporation’s results.

• Four commodities: diamonds, gold, silver, and copper
• Auctions: bid for access to colonial officials and key infrastructure
• Economic development: build mines and rail links to reach the ports
• Reputation: money can buy reputation, but it becomes more expensive as the game progresses

Namibia balances financial ambition against long-term standing. Limited access to transport and shipping can restrict earnings, while excessive bribery can damage a player’s final position. The winner is the player with the highest reputation, making profitable decisions only part of the challenge.

Released in 2010, Namibia is the second game in the “Edition Bohrtürme” series and uses game pieces from Giganten by Kosmos.