18Svea (2022) Board Game – Board Game Guys

18Svea, released in 2022, is an economic board game designed by Jonas Jones and Christopher Stenseth, with artwork by All-Aboard Games. The game is set in the world of trains, where players take on the role of railway tycoons looking to build their rail networks and invest in stocks to become the most successful player.

Game Components of 18Svea

Game board: Represents the middle part of Sweden, known as “Svealand”.

Five fictional train companies: Based in Stockholm, Göteborg, Norrköping, Jönköping, and Örebro.

Stock certificates: For the five railroad companies.

Rail tiles: To expand the rail network.

Train tokens: To run trains and generate revenue.

Money and share tokens: To track player wealth.

How To Setup 18Svea

To set up 18Svea, start by laying out the game board, which features a map of Svealand. Each player selects a starting portfolio of stock certificates and initial capital. The five railroad companies are introduced, each with its base in a different Swedish city. Players then prepare the rail tiles, train tokens, and other necessary components.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Stock Rounds (SR): Players manage their investments in the five companies.

Operating Rounds (OR): Railroad companies expand their rail network, establish stations, run trains, and generate money for their shareholders.

Game Duration: The game ends after four SRs and seven ORs.

Objective: The player with the highest combined wealth in money and company shares wins.

Player Experience

18Svea is custom-built for heavy player interaction from the first Operating Round, ensuring that players are engaged throughout the game. The limited playtime makes it an attractive option for those who want to experience the 18XX genre without the lengthy commitment.

Pros

Short playtime: Less than 2 hours.

High player interaction: Engaging from the start.

Simplified rules: Easier to learn compared to other 18XX games.

Strategic depth: Still offers significant strategic elements.

Cons

Limited player count: Designed for 2-3 players only.

Less complexity: May not appeal to those seeking the full complexity of other 18XX games.

Personal Thoughts on 18Svea

18Svea is ideal for those new to the 18XX series or for experienced players looking for a quicker, more streamlined experience. It maintains the core mechanics of the 18XX genre while being more accessible and faster-paced. This game is perfect for a evening game session or for introducing friends to the world of railroad tycoon games.

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