1822: The Railways of Great Britain
- Designer Simon Cutforth
- Publisher All-Aboard Games
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 1822, players act as investors in British railway companies during the steam age. The game features simultaneous auctions, stock trading, and building a network on a map of Great Britain. With historical destinations and a new Local train type, it offers strategic depth and player interaction through company takeovers and market competition.
Who Is This Game For?
1822 is an expert-level game for 3 to 7 players aged 12 and up, with a long playtime of around 7 hours. It suits experienced players who enjoy complex economic simulations and strategic railway games. Prior experience with 18xx or similar games is recommended.
How It Works
The core mechanics include Auction / Bidding, Stock Holding, and Network and Route Building. Players simultaneously bid on private, minor, and major companies released randomly in tranches. They buy shares, build track tiles, and major companies can acquire minors to expand their network. The goal is to maximize personal wealth through investment and company operations.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Simon Cutforth, 1822 is part of the renowned 18xx series and won the 2016 Golden Elephant Award for best heavy board game. It stands out with its Lawsonian auction system and the introduction of a Local train type. Historical destinations combined with flexible takeover rules make it unique among railway economic games.
Awards
- 2016 The Golden Elephant Award Best Heavy Board Game — Winner
- 2016 The Golden Elephant Award — Finalist
Pro
- Deep economic simulation with stock and route building mechanics
- Innovative Lawsonian simultaneous bidding system
- High player interaction through takeovers and market dynamics
- Winner of the 2016 Golden Elephant Award
Contra
- Very long playtime of about 7 hours
- High complexity and steep learning curve
- Minimum age 12, not suitable for young children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in Victorian-era Great Britain during the steam locomotive age, focusing on expanding the railway network. The map covers most of Great Britain except North Wales and the Scottish Highlands.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the mechanics and preferably play with experienced players who can help with the learning process.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
1822 is designed for 3 to 7 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game lasts about 420 minutes, roughly 7 hours including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
This is an expert game recommended for players experienced with complex economic or 18xx-style games.
How does this compare to similar games?
1822 features the Lawsonian auction and a new Local train, combined with historical destinations and flexible acquisitions.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its length, complexity, and age limit, 1822 is generally not suitable for families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Auction / Bidding, Stock Holding, and Network and Route Building defines the game's uniqueness.
Fazit
1822 is recommended for fans of deep economic and railway strategy games with a long duration. It is less suitable for beginners due to its complexity.
