On the Underground: Paris / New York

About this board game

On the Underground: Paris / New York is a 2–5 player board game with approximately 60 minutes of play time, in which players build metro lines across either Paris or New York.

Each player controls two to four different lines, depending on the number of players. At the start of each turn, four destination cards are available, each corresponding to a station on the map. Players can take up to four actions, choosing between placing one of their track tokens or taking a branch token.

Normally, a line can be extended only from one of its endpoints. However, two branch tokens allow a player to branch out from an existing line, creating additional route-building possibilities. After a turn, a passenger travels along the players’ lines, avoiding walking as much as possible, to reach one or two destinations selected at the beginning of that turn.

• Build and connect: Score by linking lines to different types of stations.
• Guide the passenger: Earn points when the passenger uses your lines.
• Adapt your strategy: Collect landmark tiles in Paris, connect stations across water in New York, and pursue Parisian secret objectives.

Paris offers a thoughtful map filled with options. Players must balance collecting sets of tokens, connecting secret destinations, blocking opponents without becoming blocked, and carrying the passenger. It is the refined elder sister of the original On the Underground: London map and is recommended for experienced players.

New York provides a faster-paced experience that reflects the hectic rhythm of the Big Apple. The map encourages players to create lines through Manhattan while building quickly enough to keep up with the always-moving passenger.

Once all destination cards have been drawn and every player has taken the same number of turns, the game ends. With two distinct maps and different strategic emphases, On the Underground: Paris / New York offers route planning, tactical blocking, and passenger-focused scoring in one metro-building experience.