1863: London Underground
- Designer Julian Honour
- Publisher (Self-Published)
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 1863: London Underground, 3 to 6 players compete in Victorian London to build and manage underground railway companies. Players found, buy, merge, and close historical companies, expanding their networks by laying tracks and running trains. Income is generated through operations and paid as dividends or reinvested. The game ends when the last train is bought or only one company remains. Strategic planning and savvy decisions are key.
Who Is This Game For?
This is an expert-level game for players aged 14 and up who enjoy complex economic simulations. With a duration of about 360 minutes, it's an extended session game without a solo mode. Prior experience with economic or 18xx railroad games is recommended.
How It Works
1863: London Underground uses mechanics such as Auction / Bidding, Loans, Market, Network and Route Building, and Stock Holding. Players bid on shares, manage loans, expand track networks, and operate trains to generate revenue. Earnings can be paid as dividends or used to buy trains and cover expenses. The game revolves around strategic stock trading and network expansion.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Julian Honour, 1863: London Underground is part of the 18xx series known for deep economic gameplay. It is distinguished by its small geographic scope, inclusion of subsidiaries, operating costs, and the historical incorporation of the London Passenger Transport Board (LPTB).
Pro
- Complex economic simulation with stock trading and loans
- High strategic depth through network and route building
- Historical setting focused on London Underground
- Part of the renowned 18xx series
Contra
- Very long playtime of about 6 hours
- Only for 3 to 6 players, no solo mode
- High learning curve due to complexity and required experience
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Victorian London, the game depicts an alternate history of the London Underground, covering founding, merging, and operating companies up to the semi-nationalization in 1933.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with basic knowledge of stock and railroad games to better grasp the complex mechanics.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
1863: London Underground is designed for 3 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 360 minutes, making it suitable for extended gaming sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced players familiar with economic simulations and ideally the 18xx series.
How does this compare to similar games?
1863 stands out for its smaller geographic focus, subsidiaries, and the historical LPTB integration.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players aged 14+, not as a family game.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Auction / Bidding, Loans, and Network and Route Building defines its unique gameplay.
Fazit
1863: London Underground is a demanding railroad and stock market game suited for experts interested in historical economic simulations. The long playtime and complexity make it less suitable for casual players.
