Fields of Arle: Tea & Trade

Life in East Frisia has never been easy. Constantly buffeted by winds from the North Sea, this isolated region in the northwestern reaches of Germany also has to deal with the ongoing threat of storm tides. Even worse, East Frisian history is marked by fierce feuds between numerous peoples seeking to control the region.

Throughout it all, however, East Frisians have been able to develop a robust and peculiar culture wholly distinct from other parts of the country. Fields of Arle celebrates the history and culture of this unique region, inviting players to participate in the peaceful pastimes of craftsmanship and agriculture that are pillars of the East Frisian way of life. Set around the year 1800—a time of great change and prosperity in East Frisia—the game allows players to experience four and half years as flax farmers near the small town of Arle. Toiling the land, players must capitalize on every opportunity they can as the summer gives way to winter and their options shift.

The upcoming Tea & Trade expansion broadens the game’s scope to include a third player and incorporates many important aspects of the vibrant East Frisian culture. Today, we take a closer look at dimensions these new elements add as you explore East Frisia and beyond.

ACROSS THE SEA
The dawn of the 19th century was a time of great economic improvement in East Frisia. In addition to an increase in peat and brick production on former moorlands, prominent ports such as Emden were major shipping centers that also provided the country with a healthy supply of fish.

These ports take on a significant role in Tea & Trade. The expansion gives each player a Harbor Board that opens new actions and possibilities. Here, you can build Fishing Cutters to harvest the bounty of the sea or sturdy Trading Ships that cross the ocean and exchange goods.

In our announcement, we outlined the Fishing Cutters’ ability to generate additional food by leaving their spaces uncovered. Likewise, Trading Ships have their own unique traits that make them a sound investment. You can send each of your Trading Ships to several locations across the globe to acquire goods that will fuel more projects and profits around your farm.

Fields of Arle is required to enjoy this game.