18DE: Germany
- Designer Scott Petersen
- Publisher All-Aboard Games
- Illustration Scott Petersen
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 18DE: Germany, you dive into a traditional operational railroad game based on the merger and conversion system from 1817 but without short selling. Players auction private companies, build routes using various tile types, and manage investments and stocks. Games last around 3-4 hours, offering deep strategic decisions in route planning and economic control across Germany.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced gamers who enjoy complex economic titles with long sessions. Suitable for ages 14 and up, it demands patience and familiarity with the 18xx series. The approximately 5-hour playtime requires strategic thinking and endurance.
How It Works
18DE: Germany combines auction/bidding, stock holding, and network and route building. Players draft private companies in a new auction system, place tiles to expand rail networks, and invest in stocks to gain company control. Key mechanics like Investment, Auction / Bidding, Stock Holding, Network and Route Building, and Tile Placement define gameplay and strategic depth.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Scott Petersen and released in 2021, 18DE: Germany belongs to the renowned 18xx series and adapts 1817's mechanics with no short selling. It introduces new private companies and special tiles allowing unique route expansions. Besides digital implementations on 18xx.games, it offers standalone innovations within the complex train game genre.
Pro
- Deep economic simulation with stock trading and investment
- Strategic variety through auctions and network building
- Part of the established 18xx series with proven mechanics
- Complex and lengthy experience for enthusiasts
Contra
- Very long playtime of about 5 hours
- High complexity, not suitable for beginners
- No solo mode included
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in Germany and focuses on 19th-century railroad construction and economic development. Players build railway networks and trade stocks reflecting the industrial era.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Familiarize yourself with basic 18xx mechanics before playing 18DE: Germany to better handle its complexity.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 18DE: Germany is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not support solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 3 to 4 hours, with setup and explanation time adding on.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with complex economic games, ideally the 18xx series.
How does this compare to similar games?
18DE: Germany uses the merger and conversion system from 1817 without short selling and adds new private companies and tiles, distinguishing it within the 18xx family.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its high complexity and long duration, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families with children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of Auction / Bidding, Stock Holding, and Network and Route Building shapes the core gameplay.
Fazit
18DE: Germany is recommended for fans of the 18xx series and in-depth economic games. Those who enjoy complex, lengthy sessions and have an interest in trains and stocks will find a rich strategic experience.





















