Shikoku 1889 (2004) Board Game

Shikoku 1889 is a board game that was released in 2004 and designed by Yasutaka Ikeda. The game is set in Shikoku, Japan in the year 1889 during the Meiji period. Players take on the roles of entrepreneurs looking to build railway networks and transport goods across the island.

Game Components of Shikoku 1889

Game board featuring the terrain-heavy map of Shikoku

Share certificates for various railroad companies

Train cards and tokens

Money and dividend tokens

Player markers and company tokens

Rulebook

How To Setup Shikoku 1889

To set up the game, players begin by placing the game board in the middle of the playing area. Each player selects a marker and places it on the board. The share certificates are distributed, and each player is given a starting amount of money. The train cards and tokens are arranged according to the rules, with the oldest trains available first. The game’s setup ensures that all players have a clear understanding of the initial state of the railroad companies and their financial positions.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Category: Economic, Train/Railway, Stock Holding

Mechanics: Stock Holding, Route Building, Economic Engine

Designer: Yasutaka Ikeda

Year: 2004

Player Count: 2-6

Playing Time: 90-210 minutes

Age: 14+

Gameplay Objective

Purchase shares in railroad companies during Share Dealing Rounds.

Conduct operations on the game board through railroad corporations, with decisions made by the major shareholder.

Manage train upgrades and obsolescence.

Maximize earnings through dividends and stock value gains.

The player with the highest value of personal cash and held stocks at the end of the game wins.

Player Experience

Shikoku 1889 offers a engaging and strategic experience, particularly for fans of economic and train-themed games. Players must navigate the complexities of stock holding and railroad management, making tactical decisions about when to invest, when to upgrade trains, and how to optimize routes. The game is known for its simplicity compared to other 18xx games, making it a great introduction to the series.

Pros

Introductory Game: Excellent for new players to the 18xx series due to its streamlined rules.

Strategic Depth: Offers significant strategic choices despite its relative simplicity.

Engaging Theme: The historic setting and railroad development theme are well-integrated and engaging.

Quick Setup: Rules explanation is typically around 30 minutes, making it accessible for new players.

Cons

Math-Intensive: Constant arithmetic calculations, especially in the final rounds, can be daunting for some players.

Length: Games can last between 3-4 hours, including rules explanation.

Availability: Originally available in kit form and now published by Deep Thought Games, LLC, which might affect its availability.

Personal Thoughts on Shikoku 1889

Shikoku 1889 is ideal for players interested in economic and train-themed games, especially those looking to dive into the 18xx series. It serves as a great teaching game, allowing new players to grasp the core mechanics before moving on to more complex games in the series. However, it is not recommended for players who dislike constant arithmetic calculations or prefer shorter game sessions. Overall, it offers a fun and challenging experience that blends strategy and historical context.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.