The first game in Thomas Spitzer's highly acclaimed coal trilogy, Haspelknecht: The Story of Early Coal Mining transports players to the beginning of coal mining in the Ruhr valley in the 16th century. Players take upon the role of farmers who exploit the presence of coal in their lands in the southern part of the Ruhr region. Obtain unique developments, expand your farm, and dig deeper in the Earth to exploit more coal. Beware of quickly accumulating pit water, for it can stall your efforts and prevent your extraction of valuable coal.