1865: Midwest
- Designer Drew Dane , Clay Murry
- Publisher Paperemail
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 1865: Midwest, players act as investors in railroad companies in the US Midwest. The game alternates between stock rounds, where shares are bought and sold, and operating rounds, where players build track, run trains, and manage company assets. It simulates historical railroad mergers and offers multiple paths to victory, requiring strategic planning and competition.
Who Is This Game For?
This is a complex, long-duration game (around 6 hours) suitable for experienced players interested in economic and railway-themed strategy games. It supports 3 to 6 players and demands familiarity with stock and network mechanics.
How It Works
The game features Auction / Bidding, Network and Route Building, Stock Holding, and Tile Placement. Players bid on shares, place tiles to build rail networks, and operate their companies in alternating phases. Mergers of railroads and stock market tactics shape the game’s progression.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Drew Dane and Clay Murry, 1865: Midwest is part of the 18xx series, known for combining stock trading with railroad construction. It focuses on the US Midwest’s railroad history and offers balanced competition with several victory paths.
Pro
- Deep mix of stock trading and railroad building
- Multiple strategies with various paths to victory
- Historically inspired US Midwest setting
- Part of the established 18xx series
Contra
- Very long playtime (~6 hours)
- Only for experienced players
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in the 19th-century American Midwest, focusing on railroad construction and stock trading. Players invest in historical railroad companies and navigate mergers and expansions.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the flow of stock and operating rounds and watch other players’ strategies carefully.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 1865: Midwest is designed for 3 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game lasts about 360 minutes, roughly 6 hours, requiring a full game evening.
What prior experience do I need?
This is a complex expert-level game needing experience with economic strategy and stock mechanics.
How does this compare to similar games?
1865: Midwest uses the classic 18xx system with a focus on the US Midwest and combines stock trading with detailed track building.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The game’s core mechanics include Auction / Bidding, Stock Holding, Network and Route Building, and Tile Placement.
Fazit
1865: Midwest is recommended for players seeking deep economic and railway strategy games. Fans of long strategic sessions with stock market and network building will find a rewarding challenge.
