18Scan (2005) Board Game – Board Game Guys

18Scan is a board game that was released in 2005 and designed by David G. D. Hecht. It falls into the categories of economic, trains, and transportation games, featuring gameplay centered around network and route building, stock holding, and tile placement mechanics.

Game Components of 18Scan

Map: A small, yet intricate map covering most of Scandinavia.

Trains: Various train types, including 2/1 + 1, 3/2 + 2, 4/3 + 3, 5/4 + 4, 5E, and 4D trains, with the 5-train being the first permanent one.

Stock Certificates: Full-sized stock exchange with stocks that decrease in price when sold and increase with higher dividends.

Tiles: Modular board with track tiles, including brown cities (Y tiles) and green upgrade tiles.

Minor Companies: Optional private companies and minor companies that add strategic depth.

How To Setup 18Scan

Setting up 18Scan involves preparing the modular board, distributing the initial shares, and setting up the stock exchange. Players start by placing the map tiles to form the Scandinavian region. Each player selects or bids on starting companies and minor companies. The stock exchange is initialized, and players receive their starting capital.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Network and Route Building: Players build railroad tracks across the Scandinavian map.

Stock Holding: Players buy, sell, and trade stock in various railroad companies.

Tile Placement: Tiles are used to expand the railroad network and upgrade tracks.

Game Objective: The goal is to accumulate wealth by successfully managing railroad companies, building efficient routes, and optimizing stock holdings.

Player Experience

18Scan offers a balanced mix of engineering and stock market strategies. The game is designed to be shorter and more straightforward than other 18xx games, making it a good introduction to the series. Players enjoy the dynamic map, the variety of train types, and the strategic decisions involved in managing companies and stocks. The game typically lasts around 3 hours, providing a satisfying yet manageable gameplay experience.

Pros

Dynamic Map: Encourages companies to operate throughout the board, interacting and competing with each other.

Short Game Time: Designed to be a quicker 18xx game, ideal for a “fill-in-the-cracks” session.

Strategic Depth: Includes minor companies, mergers, and various train categories, offering a wide range of strategic options.

Forgiving Gameplay: More accessible than some other 18xx games, making it a good introduction to the series.

Cons

Availability: Only available through web publishers like Golden Spike Games, with long wait times (6-9 months) for orders.

Limited Distribution: Not widely available in retail stores, requiring direct order from specific publishers.

Personal Thoughts on 18Scan

18Scan is ideal for fans of the 18xx series looking for a shorter, yet still strategically rich, game experience. It is also a great introduction for new players due to its balanced and forgiving gameplay mechanics. However, the long wait times for orders might deter some potential buyers. Overall, 18Scan offers a unique blend of economic management and railroad building, making it a standout in the 18xx family.

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