Brass: Birmingham
- MyBoardGames
- Aug 27
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 31
🧠 Teaser
If you're craving a board game that rewards long-term planning, ruthless efficiency, and strategic foresight, Brass: Birmingham might just be your next obsession. With its rich industrial theme, stunning components, and razor-sharp gameplay, this modern classic delivers a brain-burning experience that’s as rewarding as it is intense.
🎯 Game Overview
Title: Brass: Birmingham
Publisher / Year: Roxley Games, 2018
BGG Overall Rank: 1
Geek Rating: 8.5 / 10
Theme / Setting: Industrial Revolution, Economic Strategy, Network Building
Target Audience: Experienced board gamers, strategy lovers, competitive groups
Recommended Player Count: 4
Complexity Level: Medium to High
Set in 19th-century England, Brass: Birmingham challenges players to build networks, develop industries, and outmaneuver rivals across two distinct Eras — Canal and Rail. It’s a game of timing, resource management, and tactical adaptation.
📈 Quick Stats
🧩 Components & Presentation
Score: 9/10
The board and cards are beautifully crafted, with high-quality materials and a striking visual design. The "night mode" variant looks great but doesn’t offer gameplay changes — a missed opportunity for expansion. Still, the tactile experience is top-notch and elevates the immersion.
📜 Rules & Accessibility
Score: 8/10
The rulebook is solid, but a few areas could use clarification. For example:
Resource Removal: Level 2 resources remain; lower levels are removed.
Unflipped Level 2 Merchant Tiles: These stay on the board with their resources.
Canal Era Setup: The rulebook mentions one round of action but omits that each player must discard one card at the start.
These minor gaps can slow down early games, but once understood, the mechanics flow smoothly.
⚙️ Gameplay
Score: 9/10
Gameplay is where Brass: Birmingham truly shines. Every turn is a puzzle — balancing your own development with anticipating your opponents’ moves. The card-driven actions are tight and rewarding, though passing hands between players could add even more strategic tension.
The game demands focus, foresight, and adaptability. It’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who love deep strategy, it’s a gem.
😄 Fun Factor & Theme
Score: 10/10
The industrial theme is immersive and well-integrated. From the first move, you feel the competitive pressure and strategic weight. The game builds tension beautifully, and turns are genuinely exciting — you’ll find yourself eagerly awaiting your next move.
📊 Pros & Cons
🧮 Score Summary
📝 Final Verdict
Overall Score: 9/10
Brass: Birmingham is a standout title for serious board gamers. Its industrial theme, layered strategy, and competitive gameplay make it a must-play for anyone who enjoys deep, thoughtful games. Success hinges on your ability to plan ahead, adapt, and anticipate your rivals — every decision matters.
💡 Recommendation
If you're new to the game, start with the Introductory Canal Era Mode. It’s shorter and includes adjusted scoring:
1 VP per £4 in your player area
VP based on income level
Bonus VP for all level 2+ industry tiles
Expect a 2–3 hours session even in this mode, especially on your first play. For the full experience, gather four players — the game becomes significantly more challenging and rewarding with a full table.
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