1862: Railway Mania in the Eastern Counties
- Designer Mike Hutton
- Publisher GMT Games , Korea Boardgames , LMN+B, Ltd
- Illustration Mike Hutton , Rodger B. MacGowan , Mark Simonitch
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 1862, you manage railway companies in East Anglia on a board with 37 hexes. Players participate in auctions and stock trading to found companies, build track networks, and raise capital. A unique feature is petitioning parliament to float or recapitalize companies. Different train types with varied objectives add tactical depth in long game sessions.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced and expert players who enjoy complex economic simulations and stock trading. With a long playtime of about 300 minutes, patience and strategic thinking are required. A solo mode is included, allowing solo play. Prior experience with the 18xx series or similar economic games is recommended.
How It Works
1862 combines mechanics like Auction / Bidding, Stock Holding, and Network and Route Building. Players bid on company shares, control stock majorities, and build track networks on a hex board. The semi-linear stock market with multiple jumps creates a dynamic market. Petitioning parliament allows company founding or recapitalization, influencing the market and strategy.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Mike Hutton, 1862 is part of the 18xx series focusing on railway expansion in East England. It merges complex stock trading with a unique petitioning mechanic. While it has no awards, it stands out for its blend of economic simulation and train strategy.
Pro
- Deep economic simulation with stock trading
- Unique petitioning mechanic in parliament
- Includes solo mode for single players
- Part of the established 18xx series
Contra
- Very long playtime (~300 minutes)
- High complexity, not suitable for beginners
- Requires patience and prior experience
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in industrial East Anglia during the 19th-century railway expansion. Players control railway companies building track networks on a compact hex board.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand complex mechanics like stock trading and petitioning before engaging in long sessions.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Yes, 1862 includes a solo mode and can be played alone.
How long does a game really take?
The game lasts about 300 minutes, roughly five hours including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex economic games or the 18xx series is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
1862 combines stock trading with a unique petitioning mechanic, differentiating it from other 18xx titles.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its high complexity and long duration, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The petitioning mechanic in parliament is a unique element alongside classic mechanics like stock holding and route building.
Fazit
1862 is strongly recommended for enthusiasts and experts who appreciate complex economic games with long playtimes. Patience and strategic understanding are essential for enjoyment.
