18CLE
- Designer Richard McGuire
- Publisher (Self-Published)
- Illustration Richard McGuire
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 18CLE, players manage trolley car companies in Cleveland from 1848 to 1980. You bid on private companies, build routes, and hold stocks to grow your wealth. The game includes phases reflecting historical events like the Great Depression, impacting route expansions. A unique feature is a board of directors controlling the government railroad, with control shifting based on player-held priority cards. The game ends when the bank runs out of money, and the richest player wins.
Who Is This Game For?
18CLE is aimed at experienced gamers who enjoy deep economic strategy. With a playtime of about 270 minutes, it requires patience and familiarity with auction, stock holding, and route building mechanics. It's an expert-level game for players aged 18 and up, not suited for casual or family play.
How It Works
The game uses Auction / Bidding, Stock Holding, Network and Route Building, and Tile Placement mechanics. Players start by bidding on private companies, then build routes and place tiles to expand their networks. Stocks determine control and income. Different phases affect tile availability and company size. A board of directors, controlled by players holding the priority deal card, manages the government railroad and shifts control after stock rounds.
What Makes It Special
Richard McGuire created a detailed economic simulation with historical depth focused on Cleveland's trolley companies. Though it has no official awards, 18CLE stands out within the 18xx series for its unique board of directors mechanism and thematic richness.
Pro
- Deep economic simulation with historical theme
- Combines Auction / Bidding, Stock Holding, and Network Building
- Long, strategic gameplay for expert players
- Unique board of directors mechanic managing government railroad
Contra
- Very long playtime (~270 minutes)
- High entry barrier for new players
- Age restriction of 18+ limits audience
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in Cleveland, Ohio, 18CLE covers the history of trolley companies from 1848 to 1980, highlighting economic developments and historical events like the Great Depression.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand the complex mechanics and focus on building a strong stock portfolio and network.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 18CLE is designed for 3 to 6 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 270 minutes, including setup and explanation.
What prior experience do I need?
This is an expert-level game requiring familiarity with complex economic mechanics like auctions and stock holding.
How does this compare to similar games?
As part of the 18xx series, 18CLE stands out with its focus on Cleveland trolley companies and unique board of directors mechanic.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and 18+ age limit, it is not suitable for family play with children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Auction / Bidding, Stock Holding, and Network and Route Building makes it strategically complex.
Fazit
Recommended for expert gamers who enjoy long, strategic economic games. Not suitable for beginners or those seeking shorter play sessions.
