1861: Railways of the Russian Empire & 1867: Railways of Canada

What to Expect

Players act as investors in the mid-19th century building railway networks across Russia and Canada. These games use the 18xx system, introducing mechanics like auctions, stock holding, and route building in phases. The gameplay evolves from simple minor companies to complex mergers and national railways, offering a deep economic simulation lasting several hours.

Who Is This Game For?

These are expert-level games aimed at experienced players who enjoy complex economic and train simulations. With a long playtime of about six hours, they require patience and strategic thinking. While suitable as a first 18xx experience, prior knowledge of economic games is beneficial.

How It Works

Players invest in railway companies through auction/bidding and stock holding, build networks using tile placement, and control company ownership. The game phases gradually introduce new mechanics like merger rounds and a national railway, combining auction, market, and network and route building mechanics for dynamic gameplay.

What Makes It Special

Designed by Ian D. Wilson and released in 2020, these games serve as accessible entry points into the complex 18xx series by introducing mechanics in stages. They are popular at 18xx conventions as shorter alternatives and focus on strategic investment and route development.

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in the industrial 19th century, the games simulate the expansion of steam railways across the vast territories of Russia and Canada, focusing on the challenges of building large rail networks.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Take time to learn the phased mechanics and use the game as a gradual introduction to the 18xx series complexity.

Häufige Fragen

Fazit

1861 and 1867 are recommended economic train games for 18xx enthusiasts or newcomers seeking a deep, phased experience. Their length and complexity require patience and some prior gaming experience.