18GM: The 18XX GameMaster
- Designer Colin Barnhorst , Kristopher Marquardt
- Publisher (Self-Published)
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
The game features a modular board enabling virtually endless scenario creation. It includes a basic scenario called Aurora Limited with several variations. Players manage Tycoons that have special abilities in stock rounds, such as exceeding certificate limits or exchanging shares. Mechanisms like buying on margin and market making add strategic depth to stock trading.
Who Is This Game For?
18GM is aimed at experienced gamers aged 14 and up who enjoy complex economic and train simulations. The approximately 240-minute playtime demands patience and strategic thinking. Prior experience with 18xx games or similar economic simulations is recommended due to the game's complexity.
How It Works
The core mechanics include Network and Route Building, Stock Holding, and Tile Placement. Players build train routes by placing tiles on the modular board and manage stock portfolios. Tycoons enable special actions during stock rounds, like buying shares on margin or lowering initial offering prices to influence the market. The modular design allows flexible scenarios and varied gameplay.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Colin Barnhorst and Kristopher Marquardt, 18GM belongs to the well-known 18xx series. It stands out by its modular board and extensions of classic 18xx mechanics such as Tycoons and buying on margin. Although it has no official awards, it is respected among train and economic game enthusiasts for its flexibility and depth.
Pro
- Modular board allows for endless scenario variety
- Innovative stock mechanics like buying on margin and Tycoons
- Part of the renowned 18xx economic train game series
- Supports 2 to 9 players, suitable for larger groups
Contra
- Very long playtime of around 240 minutes
- High complexity, not beginner-friendly
- No solo mode included, requires at least 2 players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is themed around classic train economic simulations, focusing on building railway networks and managing stock markets. It is part of the 18xx series, historically inspired by the industrial railway era.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Start with the basic Aurora Limited scenario to learn the core mechanics before exploring more complex variations.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 18GM is designed for 2 to 9 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 240 minutes, requiring patience and strategic planning.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex economic games or the 18xx series is recommended due to the game's depth.
How does this compare to similar games?
18GM offers a modular board and special stock mechanics like Tycoons and buying on margin, differentiating it from other 18xx titles.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its high complexity and long playtime, 18GM is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The modular board combined with Network and Route Building and innovative Stock Holding mechanics like buying on margin are key features.
Fazit
18GM is recommended for fans of complex train and economic games seeking flexible scenarios and deep stock mechanics. It is less suitable for beginners due to its complexity and long playtime.
