Go Stop (1889) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Go Stop is a traditional Korean card game that has been enjoyed for centuries. It was first recorded in the late 1800s and has since become a popular pastime in Korea. The game is known for its strategic gameplay and colorful cards, which feature various symbols and numbers.

Game Components of Shikoku 1889

Stock certificates: For seven public companies, each with its own par value.

Track tiles: Limited number of yellow, green, and brown tiles; no gray tiles but gray spaces on the board.

Locomotives: Represented by trains with varying capacities (e.g., 3, 4, 5, 6 stops).

Player aids: Visual aids and a rulebook with illustrations.

Revenue tracker: Separate from the main board.

Station tokens: Each company starts with at least one token.

How To Setup Shikoku 1889

Setup involves distributing initial capital to players (typically 7,000 yen, but 5,000 yen recommended for new players to shorten game time), and conducting an auction for private companies. The game board is set up with pre-printed gray spaces that cannot be manipulated. A variant for new players skips the private company draft to save time and simplify the initial phase.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Stock Rounds: Players buy and sell shares, with the first share purchase making the player the Director of the company.

Operating Rounds: Companies lay track, buy locomotives, and place station tokens to generate revenue.

Track Building: Players must strategically lay and upgrade tracks due to the limited number of tiles available.

Locomotive Management: Timely acquisition and upgrading of locomotives is crucial as older models become obsolete.

Revenue Generation: Earn money by connecting revenue-generating locations (cities and towns) with train routes.

Objective: Maximize personal wealth by making strategic investment and operational decisions.

Player Experience

“Shikoku 1889” is a game that is relatively easy to learn but very hard to master. It requires a balance of mathematical calculations and strategic timing. Players must navigate the stock market, manage company finances separately from their own, and exploit the track network built by other players. The game is known for its subtlety, with significant changes possible in just a few rounds, making it highly dynamic and engaging.

Pros

Engaging Complexity: Simple rules but deep strategic gameplay.

Visual Aids: Excellent rulebook and player aids that make the game more accessible.

Historical Context: Set in late 19th century Japan, adding a unique thematic layer.

Player Interaction: Significant indirect player interaction through stock manipulation and track building.

Cons

Lengthy Gameplay: Games can be several hours long, although it is possible to agree on an early end.

Limited Resources: Few track tiles and locomotives, requiring aggressive resource management.

Steep Learning Curve for Mastery: While learning the rules is manageable, mastering the game is challenging.

Personal Thoughts on Shikoku 1889

“Shikoku 1889” is ideal for fans of economic simulation and train-themed games who are looking for a complex, yet rewarding experience. It is not the perfect introduction to the *18xx* system due to its unique quirks, but it is a great game for those already familiar with the genre or willing to dive deep into its mechanics. New players can start with a simplified variant to ease into the game, but overall, it is a game that offers a rich and challenging experience for those who enjoy strategic planning and management.

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