18Kit
- Designer Todd Vander Pluym
- Publisher Deep Thought Games, LLC
- Illustration John Tamplin
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In 18Kit, players buy and sell stocks of railway companies they operate, placing track and stations on a modular hex board. The game scales with player count and features a unique ribbon-style stock market. You manage companies, run trains, and can merge businesses. The winner is the richest player when a player goes bankrupt or the bank breaks.
Who Is This Game For?
18Kit is aimed at experienced gamers aged 16 and up who enjoy complex economic games with long playtimes. Matches last around five hours and require strategic thinking and patience. Beginners without 18xx experience may find the learning curve steep.
How It Works
Players bid in auctions to acquire shares in railway corporations. On a hex grid, they place track tiles and stations. The ribbon-style stock market shows share prices. Corporations operate trains, buy assets, and can merge. The game ends when a player or bank goes bankrupt, and the richest player wins.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Todd Vander Pluym, 18Kit is part of the 18xx series known for complex train economics. It stands out with a modular map and a unique ribbon-style stock market. It omits historical settings for more flexibility, combining auction, stock holding, and tile placement mechanics.
Pro
- Modular board adapts to player count
- Unique ribbon-style stock market system
- Combination of auction, stock holding, and tile placement
- Part of the renowned 18xx series
Contra
- Long playtime around 300 minutes
- High complexity, challenging for newcomers
- Recommended age 16+, not family-friendly for young children
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game takes place in an abstract, ahistorical railway world focused on economic management rather than historical accuracy.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the core mechanics and watch the stock market carefully in early games.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, 18Kit is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Games last approximately 300 minutes, requiring patience and time commitment.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is complex and best suited for experienced players familiar with economic or 18xx games.
How does this compare to similar games?
18Kit features a modular board and unique ribbon-style stock market, making it more flexible than typical 18xx titles.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and age recommendation of 16+, it is more suitable for enthusiasts than families with young kids.
What mechanic makes it special?
The unique ribbon-style stock market combined with auction and tile placement mechanics defines the gameplay.
Fazit
18Kit is a demanding economic train game for 18xx enthusiasts, requiring time and strategic depth. It offers a modular and flexible experience for players who enjoy complex stock and railway management.
