Furnace

Step into the bustling world of 19th-century industry with Furnace, an exhilarating engine-building Eurogame where players become ambitious capitalists striving to build powerful industrial corporations and amass wealth.

At the start of the game, each player receives a unique startup card, alongside initial resources depicted on that card, and a set of four colored discs, each valued from 1 to 4.

The game unfolds over four exciting rounds, each divided into two dynamic phases: Auction and Production.

During the auction phase, 6 to 8 company cards are revealed with their basic sides facing up. Players take turns placing their discs on these cards, but strategy is key—no disc can be placed on a card that already has a disc of the same color or value. This makes for a quick and engaging tactical showdown as each player aims to place their discs on four different cards.

Once all discs are strategically positioned, the cards are resolved from left to right. The player with the highest-valued disc on each card will claim it, but there's a twist! Players with lower-valued discs on the same card earn compensations—either resources multiplied by the value of their disc or a processing ability (exchanging X for Y), based on the power of their disc.

After resolving the auction, players transition to the production phase, where creativity and strategy shine. You will use your acquired cards in any order you choose. Each company card features one action for production or processing on its basic side, and two actions on its upgraded side. Utilize your cards to gather resources, transform them into money, and upgrade your companies, harnessing the full potential of your industrial empire!

At the end of four intense rounds, the capitalist with the most wealth will emerge victorious!

Adding an extra layer of strategy, Furnace includes unique capitalist cards that offer special effects. Players can choose to deal one of these out at the start of the game for added depth. For those seeking a greater challenge, don’t forget to implement the “production chain” rule, where each newly obtained company card must be strategically locked in place for the entire game.

Prepare for a thrilling venture into the industrial age—become the leading magnate in Furnace!