Chicago & NorthWestern (2016) Board Game

Chicago & NorthWestern is a board game released in 2016 that focuses on economic strategy and railroad management. Designed by Todd Sanders and published by Rio Grande Games, it has gained popularity among fans of train-themed board games.

Game Components of Chicago & NorthWestern

Game board featuring the great plains of America

Railroad tracks and building components

Stock certificates

Player tokens

Money and dividend tokens

Rulebook

How To Setup Chicago & NorthWestern

To set up the game, players first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player chooses a token and places it on the starting space in Chicago. The stock certificates, money, and other components are distributed according to the rules outlined in the rulebook. Players must carefully read the setup instructions to ensure all elements are correctly placed before the game begins.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Train game, Economic game

Mechanics: Stock trading, Track building, Resource management

Objective: The objective is to accumulate the most cash by starting and expanding railroads, managing stock, and making strategic decisions on when to build and when to pay dividends.

Key Actions:
– Starting and expanding railroads
– Investing in railroads through stock purchases
– Building tracks across the Midwest
– Deciding when to pay dividends to stock shareholders
– Managing money and resources without the option of loans

Player Experience

In **Chicago & NorthWestern**, players experience a competitive and strategic environment where timing and money management are crucial. The game requires players to balance future growth with immediate income, making difficult decisions that can significantly impact their chances of winning. There is no element of luck; success is purely based on the players’ abilities to assess opportunities and act decisively.

Pros

Strategic Depth: The game offers a rich strategic experience with complex decision-making.

Historical Theme: The setting in the late 1800s adds a historical context that can be appealing to history enthusiasts.

No Luck: The absence of luck elements ensures that players’ skills are the primary factor in winning.

Engaging Gameplay: The need to balance short-term gains with long-term strategies keeps players engaged throughout the game.

Cons

Complexity: The game can be complex and may not be suitable for casual or new board game players.

Length: While the game is designed to last about an hour, it can sometimes extend beyond that, especially with new players.

Limited Player Count: The game is best with 3-5 players, limiting its flexibility for larger or smaller groups.

Personal Thoughts on Chicago & NorthWestern

**Chicago & NorthWestern** is ideal for experienced board game enthusiasts who enjoy economic and train-themed games. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate strategic depth and are comfortable with complex decision-making. The game’s historical setting and the absence of luck elements make it a compelling choice for players looking for a challenging and rewarding experience. However, it may not be the best fit for new players or those seeking a more casual gaming experience.

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