Shikoku 1889
- Designer Yasutaka Ikeda
- Publisher Deep Thought Games, LLC , Golden Spike Games , Grand Trunk Games , Wild Heaven
- Illustration Karim Chakroun , Erik Frobom
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Shikoku 1889, players experience railroad development on Japan's Shikoku island during a historic period. Players bid in auctions to buy shares of railroad companies and operate them as majority shareholders. As old trains become obsolete, city revenues grow, making timing and investment critical to maximize dividends and stock value. The game involves strategic stock trading and route building on a hex grid.
Who Is This Game For?
This game targets experienced gamers aged 14 and up who enjoy complex economic simulations. With a duration of around 240 minutes, it requires patience and strategic planning. It is not a beginner game and demands familiarity with 18xx-style train games.
How It Works
The core mechanics include auction/bidding, stock holding, and network and route building on a hexagonal board. Players buy shares during share dealing rounds and control railroad companies as majority shareholders in operational rounds. The dynamic market affects stock prices and income, requiring careful investment and route management.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Yasutaka Ikeda, Shikoku 1889 is part of the renowned 18xx series originating from 1829. It features a smaller, terrain-heavy map on Japan's Shikoku island and complex stock and operational management. Although it has no awards, it is well-regarded among 18xx enthusiasts.
Pro
- Deep economic simulation with stock holding and operational management
- Historical setting on Japan's Shikoku island
- Part of the well-known 18xx series with familiar mechanics
- Supports 2-6 players, ideal for strategic group play
Contra
- Long playtime around 240 minutes requires patience
- High complexity, not suitable for beginners
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates the historical railroad development on Japan's Shikoku island in 1889, highlighting the challenges of building rail networks in mountainous terrain and the region's economic growth.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus initially on understanding stock mechanics and majority shareholder control before exploring complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Shikoku 1889 is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game takes about 240 minutes, making it an extended play session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is intended for experienced players familiar with complex economic games, especially 18xx titles.
How does this compare to similar games?
Shikoku 1889 features a smaller, terrain-heavy map compared to 1830 but includes classic 18xx mechanics like stock trading and route building.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is more suitable for enthusiasts than for families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of auction/bidding, stock holding, and network and route building defines the strategic depth of the game.
Fazit
Shikoku 1889 offers a deep economic railroad simulation for patient players interested in stock and route-building mechanics. It is best suited for experienced gamers rather than beginners.
