1848: Australia
- Designer Helmut Ohley , Leonhard "Lonny" Orgler
- Publisher GMT Games , Double-O Games
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 1848: Australia, players build railway tracks and operate railroad companies in Australia. During stock rounds, players buy and sell shares of various companies on the stock market. In operating rounds, company directors build track, place stations, and purchase trains to run routes that generate income. Capital earned can be paid as dividends or reinvested. The game ends at a set point, with the highest net worth player winning.
Who Is This Game For?
1848: Australia is aimed at experienced gamers who enjoy complex economic simulations and train games. With a playtime of about 240 minutes, it is an extended medium to heavy strategy game for 3 to 6 players. Prior experience with 18xx or similar economic games is recommended due to its complexity.
How It Works
The game alternates between stock rounds and operating rounds. Players bid and trade shares in railroad companies during stock rounds. In operating rounds, players build track, place stations, and run trains on routes to generate revenue. Mechanics like Auction/Bidding, Network and Route Building, and Loans are central, with unique features such as different track gauges and the Bank of England acting as a public company.
What Makes It Special
1848: Australia belongs to the 18xx series and draws from Francis Tresham's original rules, while adding unique elements. Designers Helmut Ohley and Leonhard "Lonny" Orgler include the Bank of England as a public company and incorporate different track gauges across Australia. Though it has no official awards, it stands out for its depth within the 18xx family.
Pro
- Deep economic simulation with stock trading and company management
- Part of the established 18xx series with proven mechanics
- Complex network and route building with varied track gauges
- Unique mechanics like the Bank of England and special trains
Contra
- Long playtime around 240 minutes requires patience
- High complexity not suited for newcomers
- No official awards or recognitions
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates historical railway expansion in Australia, focusing on economic competition and infrastructure development across regions with varying track gauges.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the flow of stock and operating rounds, and consider starting with simpler 18xx titles if new to the series.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
1848: Australia is designed for 3 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game lasts about 240 minutes, making it a long, extended session.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex economic games or the 18xx series is advised due to the game's complexity.
How does this compare to similar games?
1848: Australia features the Bank of England, diverse track gauges, and special Australian trains, setting it apart within the 18xx family.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is not suitable for families with younger children.
What mechanic makes it special?
Its combination of Auction/Bidding, Network and Route Building, and Loans alongside unique track gauge mechanics distinguishes it.
Fazit
1848: Australia is recommended for players who appreciate complex economic train games and long play sessions. It suits strategic planners familiar with stock trading and network building, but is less suitable for beginners.
