18Ireland
- Designer Ian Scrivins
- Publisher All-Aboard Games
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 18Ireland, players build railway networks in Ireland, invest in stocks, and bid in auctions. The game features a unique shareholder voting mechanism that allows companies to merge, sometimes against directors' wishes. Players place track tiles with broad and narrow gauges, navigating challenging route building. The train rush intensifies as the game progresses, with trains becoming obsolete in stages.
Who Is This Game For?
18Ireland is aimed at experienced players aged 14 and up who enjoy complex economic games with long playtimes. A typical session lasts about 5 hours, demanding patience and prior experience with 18xx or similar economic games. The game supports 3 to 6 players, offering different play styles depending on the player count.
How It Works
Core mechanics include auction/bidding for shares and building railway networks via tile placement. Players hold stocks in various railway companies that can merge through shareholder voting. The game combines Auction / Bidding, Network and Route Building, Stock Holding, and Tile Placement. Trains are represented as hex trains that age and become obsolete, requiring strategic investment decisions.
What Makes It Special
Ian Scrivins created a distinct variant of the 18xx system with 18Ireland, notable for its unique shareholder voting mechanism and dual-gauge track building. Part of the established 18xx series, it stands out with its Irish theme and deep economic gameplay. While it has no official awards, it is well-regarded within the 18xx community.
Pro
- Deep economic simulation with stock trading and network building
- Unique shareholder voting mechanism enabling mergers
- Part of the renowned 18xx series with an Irish theme
- High variability through random company start order
Contra
- Very long playtime (around 300 minutes)
- Steep learning curve due to complexity and economic depth
- Requires 3-6 players, no solo mode
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in economically poor Ireland and simulates building railway networks with broad and narrow gauges. The historical setting shapes the economic challenges and investment choices.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the rules and watch experienced players before diving into stock and route planning.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 18Ireland is designed for 3 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game lasts about 300 minutes, roughly 5 hours including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
Experience with complex economic or 18xx games is recommended.
How does this compare to similar games?
18Ireland features a unique shareholder voting mechanism and combines broad and narrow gauge track building.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and long playtime, it is better suited for experienced players than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The shareholder voting mechanism allows mergers that can occur against directors' wishes.
Fazit
18Ireland is a demanding economic train game for experienced players who appreciate long, strategic sessions. It is less suited for beginners but a valuable addition for fans of the 18xx series.
