Many players mistakenly believe that all double-routes on the board remain available for use during a two-player game.
No, according to the Days of Wonders Official Rulebook, in 2 or 3 player games, only one of the Double-Routes can be used.
Ticket to Ride Official Rulebook [edition not specified]
These rules correspond to the UK edition of Ticket to Ride.
Official Rule Breakdown
Regarding the use of Double-Routes in Ticket to Ride, the official rules state that some cities are connected by Double-Routes. While a player can claim either of the two routes between cities, one player cannot claim both routes to the same cities. Crucially, in 2 or 3 player games, only one of the Double-Routes can be used. Once a player claims one of the two routes between cities, the other route is closed to all other players.
Example Play Situation
Alice is playing a two-player game and decides to claim the first Double-Route between two cities. Because it is a two-player game, the second route of that Double-Route is immediately closed to Bob, even though it remains physically on the board.
Common Misconceptions
- Both routes in a Double-Route can be claimed in a 2-player game
- A single player can occupy both routes of a Double-Route
- Double-Routes are always fully available regardless of player count
Quick Reference
| You Can | You Cannot |
|---|---|
| Claim one of the two routes in a Double-Route | Claim both routes of a Double-Route to the same cities |
| Close the alternative route to other players in 2 or 3 player games | Use the second Double-Route if the player count is 2 or 3 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the official rule for Double-Routes in Ticket to Ride?
- Only one route of a Double-Route can be used in 2 or 3 player games.
- Can I claim both routes between the same two cities?
- No, one player cannot claim both routes to the same cities.
- What happens to the other route in a Double-Route during a 2-player game?
- The other route is closed to all other players once one is claimed.
- Do Double-Routes work differently in 4-player games?
- The restriction specifically applies to 2 or 3 player games.