Introduction
“Brass: Birmingham Deluxe” is one of the most beloved and premium strategy board games ever created. Designed by Gavan Brown, Matt Tolman, and Martin Wallace, and published by Roxley Games, this deluxe edition redefines what it means to experience a board game.
It’s not just a game—it’s an art form that combines economic strategy, industrial history, and luxury craftsmanship.
Set in the Industrial Revolution era of England, the game invites players to build networks, develop industries, and compete for economic dominance in the city of Birmingham and its surrounding areas. The Deluxe Edition enhances this experience with upgraded materials, beautiful artwork, and a collector’s quality finish that every board game enthusiast dreams of owning.
The Story Behind Brass: Birmingham
The original “Brass” was designed by Martin Wallace and released in 2007. It quickly gained global recognition as one of the most intelligent and strategic economic games ever made.
In 2018, Roxley Games reimagined the original concept into “Brass: Birmingham”, refining the gameplay and giving it stunning new visuals.
The success of this modern version led to the creation of the “Brass: Birmingham Deluxe Edition”, which takes everything fans loved about the game and transforms it into a luxurious collector’s piece. The Deluxe version doesn’t change the gameplay—it elevates the presentation, materials, and feel, offering an unforgettable experience on the table.
Gameplay Overview
At its core, Brass: Birmingham is an economic strategy game for 2 to 4 players, lasting around 2 to 3 hours. The game is divided into two major phases: the Canal Era and the Rail Era.
Each player represents an ambitious entrepreneur during the 18th-century Industrial Revolution. The goal is to build industries, create connections between cities, and develop a profitable network that produces and sells goods efficiently.
Game Flow:
- Develop Industries:
Players construct industries such as cotton mills, breweries, coal mines, ironworks, and pottery factories. Each industry has its own strategic purpose and income potential. - Build Connections:
Using canals in the early era and railways in the later one, players connect their industries across the map to form trade routes. - Sell and Earn:
Goods are sold through connected networks, earning players victory points and income that fuels further expansion. - Economic Balance:
Every action costs money, and balancing income, loans, and investments is the key to long-term success.
Winning the Game:
Victory points are gained by building successful industries and connections. When both eras are complete, the player with the highest number of points wins.
What Makes the Deluxe Edition Special
The Brass: Birmingham Deluxe Edition is not just a repackaging—it’s a luxury reimagining of the game that enhances every tactile and visual aspect.
Here’s what sets it apart:
1. Premium Poker-Style Iron Clays
The Deluxe Edition includes custom Roxley Iron Clays—beautifully designed poker chips that replace the cardboard money tokens from the standard edition.
These chips are heavy, smooth, and satisfying to handle, adding a sense of prestige to every transaction.
2. Upgraded Game Board and Art
The board features high-definition printing, enhanced colors, and embossed textures that bring the industrial theme to life.
The artwork by Mr. Cuddington (known for his stunning designs in other games) adds historical depth and visual clarity, making the board both beautiful and easy to read.
3. Deluxe Industry Tiles and Player Mats
Each player’s industry tiles and player boards are made from thicker, premium-quality materials, ensuring durability and a rich, tactile feel.
4. Metal and Wooden Components
Many of the game’s pieces, such as link tokens and resource cubes, are made of solid wood and metal, giving a realistic touch to coal, iron, and beer resources.
5. Collector’s Box Design
The Deluxe Edition comes in a sturdy, beautifully designed magnetic box with a velvet-like insert to keep every component perfectly organized. It’s designed for long-term use and display.
Deluxe Edition vs Standard Edition
| Feature | Standard Edition | Deluxe Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Money Tokens | Cardboard | Iron Clays Poker Chips |
| Box Quality | Standard | Magnetic Collector’s Box |
| Board Printing | Matte | High-Definition Finish |
| Components | Basic Cardboard | Metal, Wood, and Premium Finish |
| Price | Moderate | Premium |
| Collector Appeal | Regular Players | Serious Collectors |
The Deluxe Edition is meant for players who not only love deep strategy but also appreciate fine craftsmanship.
It feels more immersive, more physical, and more beautiful—making each play session something to remember.
Why Players Love Brass: Birmingham Deluxe
1. Deep and Rewarding Strategy
Every decision in Brass: Birmingham matters. Whether you’re taking a loan, placing a factory, or building a railway line, you’re constantly weighing opportunity against risk. This makes the game highly replayable and intellectually satisfying.
2. Immersive Historical Theme
The industrial atmosphere is perfectly represented—from coal mining to canal trading. Players feel the pressure and excitement of England’s booming industrial era.
3. Elegant Economics
Unlike many other strategy games, Brass doesn’t rely on luck. Every success or failure is the result of smart decisions, timing, and long-term planning.
4. Luxurious Aesthetics
The Deluxe Edition transforms the board into a visual and tactile masterpiece. The poker chips, thick tiles, and rich colors make players feel they’re managing a true empire.
5. High Replay Value
With variable setups, player interactions, and multiple strategies, no two games ever feel the same.
Ideal Players and Community Reception
Brass: Birmingham Deluxe is designed for experienced board gamers, but it can also be learned by dedicated beginners who enjoy strategic challenges.
It’s best for those who love games like Terraforming Mars, Scythe, or Catan, but want something more economic and competitive.
Since its release, the Deluxe Edition has received glowing reviews from critics and fans alike. On BoardGameGeek, Brass: Birmingham is consistently ranked among the Top 3 board games in the world.
The Deluxe version is often described as the “definitive way to experience Brass.”
Price and Availability
The Brass: Birmingham Deluxe Edition is a premium collector’s product, typically priced between $150 to $250 USD, depending on availability and region.
Because of limited production runs, it often sells out quickly on the official Roxley Games website and through online platforms such as Amazon, Game Nerdz, and BoardGameBliss.
Collectors often pay a higher price in the resale market, especially for sealed or limited-run versions with exclusive box art.
Tips for New Players
If you’re just starting with Brass: Birmingham Deluxe, here are a few helpful tips:
- Balance Loans Carefully: Taking loans early can help build faster, but pay attention to income management.
- Focus on Connectivity: Your canals and railways are the lifeblood of your empire—build them wisely.
- Use Beer Efficiently: Beer barrels are essential for selling goods; manage them strategically.
- Observe Opponents: The game rewards careful observation—watch what industries others are building.
- Think Long-Term: Short-term profit won’t always win; focus on building enduring networks.
Why It’s Worth Owning
If you’re a fan of deep economic games, beautiful design, and premium craftsmanship, Brass: Birmingham Deluxe is an investment worth making.
It’s not just a board game—it’s a collector’s treasure that combines art, strategy, and history in one luxurious package.
Every playthrough tells a new story of competition, growth, and innovation. The weight of the poker chips, the gleam of the rail lines, and the satisfaction of a well-planned industry make it a one-of-a-kind experience.
Conclusion
“Brass: Birmingham Deluxe” stands as a symbol of what modern board gaming can achieve—a perfect fusion of strategic brilliance and physical beauty.
It honors the spirit of the Industrial Revolution while delivering one of the most polished and rewarding tabletop experiences ever made.
For collectors, it’s a crown jewel. For gamers, it’s a masterpiece of design.
Whether you’re playing with friends or displaying it proudly on your shelf, Brass: Birmingham Deluxe represents the golden standard of board gaming luxury.
