In the early days of America's railroads, six railroad companies competed to serve the cities of the Southern United States. In Southern Rails, 3-5 players compete to own shares in these railroads. Once a player owns a share in a particular railroad, they become able to build tracks that will connect more cities to that railroad's network, increasing the value of that company's shares.

Over four scoring rounds, points will be awarded according to which railroads lead in various categories. However, a railroad must stand above its competitors, as shared titles are worth nothing. The player with the most points at the end of the game will be the winner.