1899
- Designer Dirk Clemens , Ingo Mayer
- Publisher Chris Lawson
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Players manage railway companies on a new Chinese map featuring extended offboard runs, costly mountain and river terrain, and mail runs that add income. The game adapts 1830’s core mechanics with minor rule changes, offering strategic depth through tile placement and stock holding. It challenges players with terrain-based building costs and a ferry built by a private company.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for experienced players aged 14 and up, 1899 requires familiarity with the 18xx series. With up to 240 minutes gameplay, it suits those who enjoy complex economic games and long, strategic sessions rather than casual or family play.
How It Works
Core mechanics include Network and Route Building, Stock Holding, and Tile Placement. Players build railway routes on a map of China, place tiles to expand networks, and hold shares in companies. Terrain affects building costs, and mail runs generate extra revenue, impacting company treasuries and strategic decisions.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Dirk Clemens and Ingo Mayer, 1899 is a regional variant of the 1830 game with specific rule modifications and a unique Chinese map. It belongs to the 18xx series, combining classic economic gameplay with new terrain challenges and additional income mechanics.
Pro
- Detailed variant of a classic 18xx game with a new Chinese map
- Strategically rich mechanics like Network and Route Building and Stock Holding
- High replayability due to varying terrain costs and mail run revenues
Contra
- Long playtime up to 240 minutes
- Requires prior experience with complex economic games
- Not suitable for players under 14
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in late 19th century China, the game focuses on railway expansion across challenging terrain including mountains, wide rivers, and Inner Mongolia, reflecting historical and geographical features.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Familiarize yourself with 1830’s rules before playing 1899 to better understand the variant’s modifications.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 1899 is designed for 3 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game can last up to 240 minutes, requiring patience and time.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex economic games and ideally the 18xx series is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
1899 is a China-themed variant of 1830 with additional terrain costs and mail run income.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and length, it is more suited for experienced players than family play.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Network and Route Building, Stock Holding, and Tile Placement with terrain-specific building costs.
Fazit
1899 is recommended for fans of 18xx titles and deep economic simulations who don’t mind lengthy playtimes. It is not suitable for beginners or players seeking shorter games.
