1840: Vienna Tramways
- Designer Leonhard "Lonny" Orgler
- Publisher Lonny Games
- Illustration Andreas Timmelmayer
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players manage holding companies operating up to three tram lines in Vienna. They build tracks and stations, run trains to earn income, and decide how to allocate earnings between dividends and investments. Stock rounds allow investing in other companies or the Stadtbahn, granting special powers. The game builds on classic 18xx mechanics with innovations like diesel trains that do not become obsolete but generate reduced income as they age.
Who Is This Game For?
1840: Vienna Tramways suits experienced players who enjoy complex economic and engine-building games. With a playtime around 240 minutes, it requires patience and strategic thinking, ideal for those familiar with stock holding and route building mechanics. The recommended age is 12 and up, indicating moderate to high complexity.
How It Works
Each player controls a holding company running up to three tram lines. Through tile placement, players build tracks and stations on the map. Network and route building mechanics determine train routes and income. Stock holding rounds let players buy shares in rivals or the Stadtbahn, influencing gameplay. Corporate rounds decide how capital is split between shareholder payouts and company investments.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Leonhard "Lonny" Orgler, 1840: Vienna Tramways was nominated for the Meeples Choice Award in 2020. As part of the 18xx series, it combines classic stock and network mechanics with fresh ideas like non-obsolete diesel trains. It offers a detailed economic simulation set in historic Vienna's tram system.
Awards
- 2020 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Deep economic simulation with stock trading
- Innovative take on classic 18xx mechanics
- High strategic depth via network and route building
- Part of the renowned 18xx series
Contra
- Very long playtime (~240 minutes)
- High complexity requiring prior experience
- Not ideal for families with younger children (12+ age)
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game portrays Vienna in 1840, focusing on the development of the city's tramway system. Players simulate the economic growth by expanding and operating tram lines on the city map.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand stock trading and track building mechanics before diving into a game.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
The game supports 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 240 minutes, suitable for extended strategic sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex economic games and 18xx mechanics is recommended due to the game's high complexity.
How does this compare to similar games?
1840 innovates on other 18xx titles by introducing diesel trains that don’t become obsolete and emphasizes stock trading and route building.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its length and complexity, it is better suited for experienced players aged 12 and up rather than families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its blend of network and route building, stock holding, and tile placement mechanics creates deep strategic gameplay.
Fazit
1840: Vienna Tramways is a demanding economic and train game for players who appreciate deep strategy and long play sessions. Its complexity and duration make it best suited for experienced gamers.
