1817
- Designer Craig Bartell , Tim Flowers
- Publisher All-Aboard Games , Deep Thought Games, LLC , Game Harbor
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 1817, players manage railroad companies in early 19th century America, building networks and engaging in stock trading. The game features auctions, loans, and network building mechanics. Financial decisions like short selling and hostile takeovers heavily influence success. It simulates the laissez-faire capitalism of the era with deep economic strategy.
Who Is This Game For?
1817 is aimed at experienced gamers and experts aged 16 and up who enjoy complex economic simulations. With a long playtime of up to 540 minutes, it requires patience and strategic planning. It is not suitable for beginners due to its intricate rules and financial mechanics.
How It Works
Players bid in auctions to buy shares of railroad companies and gain control through stock ownership. They build routes (network and route building) and manage loans as key mechanics. The game includes short selling — selling stocks you do not own in hopes of buying them back cheaper later. Mergers and hostile takeovers affect company control, with a dynamic market reacting to player actions.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Tim Flowers, 1817 is part of the renowned 18xx series known for complex train and economic games. It stands out by introducing advanced financial mechanics like short selling and market-driven interest rates. It offers a detailed simulation of American capitalism in 1817 with deep stock market gameplay.
Pro
- Comprehensive financial mechanics including short selling
- Part of the well-known 18xx series
- Complex stock and company management
- Deep economic and railroad simulation
Contra
- Very long playtime up to 540 minutes
- High complexity, not suitable for beginners
- Supports 3 to 7 players only
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in America in 1817, the year the New York Stock Exchange opened, the game simulates the capitalism and railroad expansion of that era.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on mastering basic stock trading and network building before attempting complex financial mechanics like short selling.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
1817 requires at least three players, so it is not suitable for solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A game can last up to 540 minutes, requiring significant time and patience.
What prior experience do I need?
This is an expert-level game that assumes familiarity with complex economic and railroad games.
How does this compare to similar games?
1817 differs by including advanced financial mechanics like short selling and market-driven interest rates, setting it apart from other 18xx titles.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is less suitable for families with children under 16.
What mechanic makes it special?
The short selling mechanic and market-driven interest rates are key distinguishing features.
Fazit
1817 is a deep economic simulation for experienced players interested in railroad and stock market games. Its long duration and complexity make it best suited for experts.
