Best Economic Board Games
Best Economic Board Games:
There are many board games out there, other than Monopoly, that have some sort of economic aspect into them.
What is an economic board game?
Economic board games are board games that have some sort of money related mechanisms inspired by finance, stock market, investment or trade. They are sometimes also called resource management board games.
In economic board games, players have to develop and manage a system of production, distribution, trade, and/or consumption of goods, invest and develop a business. The main goal of an economic board game is to collect profits whether in cash or victory points.
Resource management board games are a fantastic way to become familiar with economic, financial and other different concepts like trading and investment while having fun.
Economic board games often take a bit longer to play, have a lot of strategy in them and offer a rich and intense gaming experience. Also the luck factor in those kind of board games is not predominant and can be managed by the players.
If you like to think ahead, like to develop a strategy, love the idea of investing to develop your empire, you will be interested in my list of best economic board games.
As Christmas approaches, one of those economic board games can be an original gift idea for your loved ones.
See also my other board games lists:
- Best family board games
- Best 2 players board games
- Best cheap board games
- Best board games for traveling
- Board games like RISK
- Best Gateway Board games
List of best economic board games
Best economic board games
1846: The Race for the Midwest
1846: The Race to the Midwest, 1846-1935
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1846 is an 18xx game set in the Midwestern United States. Differences from other 18xx games include scaling the number of corporations, private companies, and bank size to the number of players, fewer restrictions on actions such as raising money and using private company powers, the initial distribution of private companies, and paying for virtually all track builds.You
1846: The Race for the Midwest players buys stock in companies and need to build rail tracks and try to make the most money out from all those you routes. 1846: The Race for the Midwest is probably the easiest games from the 18xx series with its simplified rules set, and would be, in my view, the ideal one to start with if you haven’t play any of them yet. I would like to add also that the game components of this version are absolutely beautiful.
What makes 1846 a standout economic game is its balance of accessibility and depth. It retains the strategic essence of 18XX games without overwhelming complexity, making it a great entry point for those curious about the genre
If you want to get into the 18xx games, 1846: The Race for the Midwest is for you!
Long Playtime: Sessions can last 3-5 hours, potentially deterring casual gamers.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 3-5 | 240 min | 14+ |
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Power Grid
1846: The Race to the Midwest, 1846-1935
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Power Grid, designed by Friedemann Friese and published by Rio Grande Games in 2004, is a classic economic strategy game that has captivated board gamers for nearly two decades. Known for its innovative gameplay and tight economic mechanics, it challenges players to manage resources and build an efficient power network.
The theme of Power Grid revolves around managing and expanding a power network. Players bid on power plants, buy resources from a shared market, and connect cities to their grid. The clever interplay between resource scarcity and fluctuating prices creates a tense and rewarding economic experience. Each decision, from bidding to resource acquisition, impacts your opponents, fostering a high level of player interaction.
The game components are functional but not flashy, featuring sturdy cards, a dual-sided map (Germany and the USA), and a clear board design. While the artwork is more utilitarian than decorative, the clean design supports the game’s strategic depth.
Power Grid is an excellent economic game for its strategic depth, interactive mechanics, and focus on resource management. It strikes a perfect balance between tactical decision-making and long-term planning, making it ideal for those who enjoy brain-burning Eurogames. Its timeless design and strong replayability make it a must-have for any serious board game collection.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-6 | 120 min | 12+ |
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Brass
Brass, designed by Martin Wallace and originally published in 2007 by Warfrog Games (later reprinted as Brass: Lancashire by Roxley Games), is a masterpiece of economic strategy set during the Industrial Revolution. This game immerses players in the development of industry in 18th and 19th-century England, balancing resource management, network building, and market timing.
Welcome to Lancashire, England in the 18th Century. The world is about to change from Medieval to Modern. This change will be called the Industrial Revolution. Can you take advantage of this transformation? What’s the best strategy? Build cotton mills? Develop new technologies? Dig canals? Produce coal, or maybe steel? There is no simple answer and the opportunities that arise will be different in each game you play as you move through the Canal and Railway periods, striving to get the best return you can from your investments – hopefully just in time to snatch the next opportunity from under the noses of your rivals.
In Brass, each players develop the local cotton industry. Each production is dependent to another one: it takes coal to build rails, you will need a port to export your cotton, and so on. Interaction with other players is therefore fundamental, since the raw materials may come from your mines or trade with your opponents.
Brass is a logistical game where you make money to make more money. However, you also need to make certain the industries you’re creating are sustainable, which makes Brass unique and endlessly fascinating.
Technological innovations also change the game, when you move from the era of the canal to that of the rail for example.
The components, particularly in the Brass: Lancashire reprint, are top-notch. The board art is stunning, the poker-style chips for money are satisfying to use, and the pieces are well-designed to complement the game’s thematic elegance.
Brass was released in 2007, and still remained today one of my favorite economic board game I have played. There is a really good balance of luck and strategy in Brass and the game is very engaging throughout. Players will need a of planning ahead as well as short term tactical maneuvers. Highly recommended economic board game.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-4 | 120-180 min | 14+ |
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The Great Zimbabwe
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The Great Zimbabwe, designed by Jeroen Doumen and Joris Wiersinga and published by Splotter Spellen in 2012, is a unique economic strategy game centered around resource management and building monuments in ancient Africa. Known for its tight gameplay and asymmetric strategies, it’s a game that rewards adaptability and clever planning.
The theme of The Great Zimbabwe revolves around players building monuments to honor their civilizations, leveraging craftsmen and resources to do so. The game blends resource logistics and spatial planning, requiring players to balance the cost of services with their growing monuments. Victory is determined by reaching a personalized victory point threshold, which increases as players take on more powerful abilities.
The components are functional but minimalist, consistent with Splotter Spellen’s focus on gameplay over presentation. The game’s wooden pieces and clean artwork serve their purpose well, though they lack the polish of more mass-market titles.
What sets The Great Zimbabwe apart is its economic tension and strategic depth. The dynamic interaction between players ensures every game feels fresh, while the asymmetry provides endless replayability. If you enjoy highly interactive economic games with a historical and cultural twist, The Great Zimbabwe is an exceptional choice for your collection.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 90-150 min | 14+ |
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Stockpile Board game
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Stockpile, designed by Seth Van Orden and Brett Sobol and published by Nauvoo Games in 2015, is an engaging economic board game centered on stock trading and insider information. Combining accessible gameplay with strategic depth, it offers a lighthearted yet competitive take on investing in the stock market.
In Stockpile, players act as investors, trading stocks based on insider information and market trends. The gameplay revolves around bidding on stockpiles, which are stacks of cards containing valuable stocks, taxes, or trading fees. Each player has secret knowledge of one stock’s future performance, creating a bluffing and deduction dynamic. The game balances risk and reward as players attempt to outsmart opponents while managing their portfolios.
The components are well-designed, featuring colorful artwork, sturdy player boards, and clear iconography. The Deluxe Edition enhances the experience with upgraded materials, including custom money and additional expansions.
What makes Stockpile shine is its blend of simplicity and excitement. The insider trading mechanic ensures that every decision carries weight, while the auction phase adds a layer of tension. Its approachable nature makes it an excellent gateway game for those new to economic board games. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, interactive, and highly replayable stock market experience, Stockpile is a fantastic addition to your collection.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 45 min | 13+ |
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Acquire
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Acquire, designed by Sid Sackson and first published in 1964, is a classic economic board game that has stood the test of time. Combining stock market mechanics with corporate mergers, it delivers a strategic and elegant experience for players who enjoy financial planning and tile-laying games.
n Acquire, players build and invest in hotel chains by placing tiles on a shared board. As chains grow and merge, players gain opportunities to buy, sell, or hold stocks in these companies. The game revolves around strategic placement, timing mergers, and maximizing returns on investments. Victory is determined by who accumulates the most wealth through savvy stock trading and corporate takeovers.
The components vary by edition; earlier versions often had basic plastic or cardboard pieces, while newer editions have improved aesthetics and durability. I love the Vintage version of Acquire by 3M Company, with the wooden tiles as compared as the newest version with the plastic components. Despite the simplicity of its visuals, the game’s clarity and focus on mechanics make it accessible.
Acquire is a landmark in board game design, appealing to both casual gamers and seasoned strategists. Its blend of stock market tactics and area control creates a unique and rewarding gameplay experience. There is a lot of strategy in Acquire, important decisions that you will have to make during a game as you buy and sell companies. At the same time, some part of luck remains as you draw the tiles.
Acquire is a board game game that is simple, light and fun, perfect family board game. If you’re looking for a classic economic game that’s easy to learn but challenging to master, Acquire is a worthy addition to any collection.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 3-6 | 90 min | 12+ |
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Indonesia
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The theme of Indonesia revolves around players managing companies that produce and transport goods such as rice, spices, and oil. The gameplay is built around expanding industries, acquiring companies, and strategically merging businesses to create powerful conglomerates. The logistics of delivering goods efficiently and competing for market dominance are central to success.
The components, while minimalist, are well-designed for clarity and functionality. The map and tokens serve their purpose but might not impress players accustomed to high-production-value games.
What makes Indonesia stand out is its unique merger mechanic and the challenge of optimizing logistics. The game rewards careful planning, negotiation, and adaptability, making it a favorite among fans of complex economic simulations. If you’re a fan of heavy strategy games with a strong economic focus and don’t mind a longer playtime, Indonesia is an exceptional choice.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 180-240 min | 14+ |
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Container
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- 3 to 5 player game
- 90 minutes to play
- Complete artwork by mike doyle
- Economic strategy game
- Island shipping theme
Container, designed by Franz-Benno Delonge and Thomas Ewert, and originally published in 2007 (with a Jumbo Edition released in 2018), is a standout title often mentioned among the best economic board games. It’s a deeply interactive and strategic game focused on production, trade, and pricing in a minimalist but highly competitive economic ecosystem.
n Container, players manage their own economies by producing goods, setting prices, and shipping containers to a shared island for auction. Every player controls their production and pricing, leading to a dynamic and competitive market. Auctions play a critical role, as players bid for containers with hidden values, adding an element of bluffing and risk management.
The Jumbo Edition of the game features high-quality components, including oversized resin containers, making the tactile experience more engaging. The minimalist design supports the game’s focus on strategy while adding a touch of elegance.
Often hailed as one of the best economic board games, Container shines for its pure economic mechanics and emphasis on player interaction. It rewards strategic thinking, adaptability, and an understanding of supply-and-demand dynamics. If you’re looking for a challenging and highly replayable economic game, Container is a must-have in your collection.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 3-5 | 90 min | 12+ |
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Navegador
Navegador, designed by Mac Gerdts and published in 2010 by PD-Verlag, is an elegant economic and exploration game inspired by the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Known for its innovative rondel mechanic and strategic depth, it’s often considered one of the best economic board games for its balance of simplicity and challenge.
In Navegador, players expand their influence by exploring new territories, establishing colonies, building production facilities, and trading goods like sugar, gold, and spices. The rondel mechanic dictates available actions, requiring players to carefully plan their moves to optimize efficiency. The game’s economy is dynamic, with fluctuating market prices based on supply and demand, making timing crucial.
The components are high-quality, featuring a beautifully illustrated board, sturdy player pieces, and well-designed tokens. The visuals effectively evoke the Age of Discovery, adding to the game’s charm.
Frequently cited among the best economic board games, Navegador excels in its combination of streamlined mechanics and strategic depth. It rewards careful planning and adaptability, making it a great choice for both seasoned gamers and those new to economic strategy games. If you enjoy games with historical themes and clever mechanics, Navegador is a worthy addition to your collection.
| Players | Playing time | Recommended for |
|---|---|---|
| 2-5 | 60-90 min | 12+ |
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