20th Century

Build a modern country over six rounds, grow your economy and clean up the garbage and pollution it creates.

Designer: Vladimír Suchý
Published by: Czech Games Edition (CGE)
Editions by: IELLO, Rio Grande Games, MINDOK, Heidelberger Spieleverlag

Every country wants to grow, each in its own way: some become financial leaders, others centers of learning, and science and commerce together push nations toward the future. But growth makes waste, and the greatest advances can cost the environment the most. In 20th Century you run a country over six rounds, overseeing urbanization and trying to build a land free of garbage and pollution, where the environment is as healthy as the economy. Some lands produce income, others research or quality of life, and research unlocks technologies that shape your development. Tile placement and auctions drive it. A 2010 game for three to five, around two hours.

Six rounds of urbanizationTile placement and auction biddingWaste and pollution must be cleaned up

Who it's for

You like city-building and economic games with a conscience and don't mind a two-hour sit.

Not for you if…

You want something light or flashy. This is a sober, long, auction-heavy build.

Vibe's take

Thoughtful and slightly smug. You race to grow, then realize every boom leaves a mess, and the auctions make you pay for your ambition.