18NY (2011) Board Game – Board Game Guys

18NY is a board game that was released in 2011 and falls under the economic and trains category. It is designed for 2-6 players, with a recommended best player count of

The game is known for its complex gameplay mechanics, including network and route building, stock holding, and tile placement.

Game Components of 18NY

Map: Hex grid depicting New York State and surrounding areas

Track Tiles: Representing land-rights and railroad networks

Stock Certificates: For minor and major companies

Train Tokens: Different types and phases of trains

Private Companies: Each with specific properties and benefits

Station Tokens: To represent stations on the map

Money and Other Tokens: For various game mechanics.

How To Setup 18NY

To set up 18NY, players first prepare the game board by laying out the hex grid map. Each player selects their starting cash and any initial stock or private companies according to the game’s rules. The stock market is set up with the initial stock prices, and the private companies are distributed or auctioned off. The train tokens and track tiles are organized by phase and made available as the game progresses. Players then begin the first stock round, where they can buy or sell stock in minor and major companies.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Stock Rounds: Players buy and sell stock, open new companies, or take over existing ones. Stock prices fall vertically with sales and move left or right based on company loans and repayments.

Operating Rounds: Companies conduct business, including laying track, placing stations, and buying trains. The number of operating rounds increases as the game progresses.

Train Phases: Trains become obsolete and are replaced by more advanced types, triggering phase changes in the game, such as new tile availability and increased city valuations.

Company Actions: Presidents of companies decide on actions like laying track, operating trains, and paying dividends or withholding income.

Objective: The goal is to maximize personal wealth through cash, stock, and other investments by the end of the game.

Player Experience

Playing 18NY involves a deep dive into the world of 19th-century railroad management. The game requires strategic planning, financial management, and a keen eye for market trends. Players must balance their personal wealth with the needs of the companies they control, navigating the complexities of train phases, track building, and stock market fluctuations. The game is known for its engaging train rush, especially when the more advanced trains are introduced, and the strategic use of private companies can significantly impact gameplay.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers a rich and complex gameplay experience, appealing to fans of economic and train games.

Historical Setting: Set in New York State, providing a unique historical context.

Variety in Mechanics: Combines elements from other 18xx games, making it a compelling addition to the series.

Replayability: High replayability due to variable setup and player interactions.

Cons

Complexity: Can be overwhelming for new players, especially those not familiar with the 18xx series.

Length: Gameplay is as long as other 18xx games, such as 1830, which may deter some players.

Steep Learning Curve: Requires significant time to learn and master the rules and strategies.

Personal Thoughts on 18NY

18NY is ideally suited for experienced players of the 18xx series or those who enjoy complex economic and train games. It offers a challenging and rewarding experience, particularly for those who appreciate the historical and strategic aspects of railroad management. However, due to its complexity and length, it may not be the best introduction for new players to the series. For fans of deep strategy and economic engine games, 18NY is a must-play that adds a fresh yet familiar twist to the 18xx genre.

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