Maglev Metro

I pre-ordered it almost the moment I saw it. Alspach inspires confidence in me, as does Bezier, and Suburbia had won over even people who usually look down on games like this. Thankfully, Maglev Metro did not disappoint as an object: its production is polished, it has presence on the table, and overall it looks like a game that knows exactly what it wants to be. Only the transparent tiles felt a little awkward to me, but that is not where the issue lies.

At its core, it is pick-and-deliver tied to network building. I build and use my network to transport passengers, while action programming gives my choices a clear sequence instead of merely leaving me to improvise along a route. The rules are easy and understandable, and the game’s flow makes sense from the very first encounter.

Its cleverest element is that passengers are not merely cargo. Basic passengers become resources that unlock extra capabilities for my train, while advanced ones open up scoring options. That means the network and deliveries are not there simply for completing routes: every choice affects what my train can do and the direction in which I want to take my game.

After the first plays, I was left with a good feeling, even if something did not sit entirely right with me. I suspected that the maps and openings might feel somewhat scripted, but it was far too early for a final conclusion. Returning roughly a year later for two three-player games, my impression remained positive: it does not have the polish of Suburbia, and I completely understand why it has received negative comments, but I personally still like it a lot. Tramways by Viard is obviously better, but it is also several levels heavier. If you enjoy pick-and-deliver games and action programming, this is worth examining before dismissing it.

Updated session

With the second map pack, however, my mood changed. I had liked the base Maglev Metro and Map Pack I quite a lot, but the new maps—especially because of the changes they bring to the game’s core rules—felt as though they stretched the system beyond the point where it remains pleasantly flexible. I would recommend this pack only to very dedicated fans of the game, or close relatives of its creator. Everyone else will probably find better ways to spend their money.