18VA (2001) Board Game – Board Game Guys

18VA is a train-themed board game released in in 2001. It was designed by Deep Thought Games, LLC and Golden Spike Games. The game falls under the economic and train categories and is suitable for players aged 14 and up. With a runtime of 210 minutes, it can accommodate 2 to 5 players, with the optimal number being 3.

Game Components of 18VA

Map: A hex grid depicting terrain features and cities.

Track Tiles: Hexagonal tiles representing land rights for railroad expansion.

Stock Certificates: Representing ownership in companies.

Trains: Different types of trains with varying capacities and costs.

Private Companies: Unique companies with special abilities.

Money and Tokens: For managing finances and company actions.

Factory-made Board and Laminated Components: Ensuring high-quality gameplay.

How To Setup 18VA

Setting up 18VA involves several steps. First, the map is laid out, and each player selects their starting capital. Private companies are auctioned off simultaneously until all players pass, with the order determined by the amount of capital each player has. Companies, except for B&O, start as Five-Share corporations. The stock market is initialized, and the first operating round (OR) begins.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Objective: Enhance personal wealth through stock ownership, dividends, and capital appreciation.

Stock Rounds: Players buy and sell stock, with possible company actions.

Operating Rounds: Players manage companies, lay tracks, place station tokens, operate trains, and manage dividends.

Incremental Capitalization: Companies generate income only from shares on the stock exchange.

Train Upgrades: More powerful trains become available in phases, affecting game progression.

Bankruptcy Risk: Players can go bankrupt if unable to fund company expenses.

Player Experience

Playing 18VA is a complex and engaging experience. The game starts slowly but accelerates as players buy more advanced trains and expand their railroad networks. The unique auction mechanic for private companies and the incremental capitalization system add layers of strategy. Players must balance their company’s finances, stock prices, and expansion plans carefully to avoid bankruptcy.

Pros

Unique Private Companies: Offers diverse strategic options.

Incremental Capitalization: Adds complexity and realism to company financing.

High-Quality Components: Professionally prepared factory-made board and laminated components.

Dynamic Stock Market: Stock prices fluctuate based on dividends and company performance.

Cons

Complex Setup: Requires careful initialization and understanding of rules.

Risk of Bankruptcy: Mismanagement can lead to early game exit.

Long Waiting Time for Orders: Historical issue with game availability.

Personal Thoughts on 18VA

18VA is for experienced players of the 18XX series or those who enjoy complex economic and railroad-themed games. It offers a deep and challenging experience with unique mechanics that differentiate it from other games in the series. If you’re looking for a game that requires strategic planning, financial management, and a bit of luck, 18VA is an excellent choice. However, it may not be the best introduction for new players due to its complexity and the time required to learn and set up the game.

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