Power Grid Recharged: Benelux/Central Europe Expansion

Expand your global energy network with the Power Grid: Central Europe and Benelux map expansion. This double-sided board offers two distinct geographical regions, each bringing its own set of economic hurdles and strategic opportunities to the table. As a 2nd Edition release from Rio Grande Games, this expansion is designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing copy of Power Grid, providing veteran players and newcomers alike with fresh ways to compete for energy dominance. Whether you are navigating the ecological shifts of the west or the coal-rich plains of the east, these maps require a keen eye for shifting resource markets and local political climates.

The Benelux side of the board focuses on the highly developed regions of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. In this territory, the energy culture leans heavily towards sustainability and ecological progress. Players will find that "green" power plants appear more frequently in the market, offering a path to victory for those who embrace renewable energy. However, the traditional resource market is also altered here; oil is significantly more accessible, while coal supplies are restricted. These changes force players to reconsider their usual bidding strategies and plant specialisations to stay profitable in a rapidly evolving market.

Flip the board over to encounter the unique challenges of Central Europe. This map introduces a different set of priorities, particularly reflecting Poland's vast natural reserves. In this region, coal is much more plentiful than in other parts of the world, making coal-fired plants a highly viable long-term investment. Conversely, the political landscape of Central Europe poses its own restrictions; certain countries have taken firm stances against nuclear energy, which may limit your ability to build or operate nuclear facilities in specific zones. These thematic rule variations ensure that the game feels authentic to the regions represented while adding deep layers of tactical variety to your sessions.

• Double-Sided Expansion Map: Features a detailed map of the Benelux region on one side and Central Europe on the reverse for maximum replayability.
• Ecological Focus in Benelux: Introduces rules that increase the availability of green power plants and alter the balance of oil and coal resources.
• Coal-Rich Central Europe: Reflects regional geography with a surplus of coal resources, rewarding players who master this specific energy sector.
• Political Nuclear Restrictions: Adds a strategic layer where players must navigate regional politics that can hinder or block nuclear energy expansion.
• Seamless Integration: Designed as a direct expansion for Power Grid, utilising the core mechanics of the 2nd Edition while providing new regional flavours.