18EU: Railroading in Europe From the 1830s to the 1930s

What to Expect

In 18EU, players build railroads across Europe, from France to Poland and Italy, while managing companies and stocks. The game features auctioning of 15 minor companies before play, which later merge into corporations. Players operate railroads through tile placement on a hex map including Alps terrain, run trains, and earn dividends. Bonuses for long routes between off-map areas can yield high income at game end.

Who Is This Game For?

This is a complex expert-level economic game for 2 to 6 players aged 14 and up. It requires prior experience with 18xx mechanics and willingness to engage in long sessions of about five hours.

How It Works

18EU combines Auction/Bidding, Stock Holding, Network and Route Building, and Tile Placement. Players bid on minor companies, build rail networks by placing hex tiles, operate trains in operating rounds, and trade shares in stock rounds. The goal is to amass the largest private fortune by managing both personal and corporate finances.

What Makes It Special

Designed by David G. D. Hecht, 18EU stands out by including 15 minor companies auctioned before the game and later merged. It’s part of the renowned 18xx series and uniquely separates private player money from company treasuries. Its map features Europe with the Alps, affecting tile placement costs.

Setting & Atmosphäre

The game covers European railroad expansion from the 1830s to 1930s, with a map spanning France to Poland, northern Germany to central Italy, including mountainous Alps regions.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Take time to learn 18xx basics and consider starting with shorter games in the series before trying 18EU.

Häufige Fragen

Fazit

18EU is recommended for fans of deep economic railway strategy and long gameplay sessions. It is less suited for casual or family players.