18AL (1999) Board Game – Board Game Guys

18AL is a board game designed by Mark Derrick, John David Galt, and Cory Williamson and was first released in in 1999. It falls under the categories of Economic, Print & Play, Trains, and Transportation, with gameplay mechanics including Auction/Bidding, Investment, Network and Route Building, and Stock Holding. The game is best played with 3-4 players and has a runtime of approximately 180 minutes.

Game Components of 18AL

Game board

Stock certificates

Train tokens

Money tokens

Company charters

Operating rounds summary cards

Player order markers

How To Setup 18AL

Place the game board in the center of the table.

Distribute stock certificates, train tokens, and money tokens to each player.

Randomly determine starting player order.

Set up the company charters and operating rounds summary cards.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In 18AL, players take on the roles of investors in railway companies. The objective is to invest in and operate railway companies to earn the most money by the end of the game. Players must strategically bid on company stocks, build track networks, and manage finances to succeed.

Player Experience

Pros:

Deep strategy involving stock management and route building.

Engaging player interaction through auctions and stock trading.

Thematic immersion in the railway industry.

Cons:

Steep learning curve for new players.

Lengthy gameplay may not suit all players.

Limited player count may restrict accessibility.

Personal Thoughts on 18AL

18AL offers a rich experience for players interested in economic and train-themed board games. The game’s mechanics provide a challenging and rewarding gameplay experience, although it may not be suitable for casual players due to its complexity and length. The build quality of the components is decent, and the game’s category and pricing make it a valuable addition to any board game collection for enthusiasts of the genre. However, for those looking for a quicker or more casual gaming experience, 18AL may not be the best choice. Overall, 18AL is worth considering for players who enjoy in-depth strategy games and have the time and dedication to invest in mastering its gameplay mechanics.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.