Shikoku 1889

The best introduction to 18xx: railroad stock trading and operations on Japan's compact Shikoku island.

πŸ‘₯ 2–6 players⏱ approx. 240 minπŸͺ„ Takes some learning14+
β˜… 6.8 Β· BGG #735

Who it's for

Gamers curious about 18xx who want the most accessible entry point into railroad stock gaming.

Not for you if…

You want the full 18xx marathon. This is deliberately compact and shorter.

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Vibe's take

18xx gateway, stock market tension, railroad operations, economic, compact scope

About this game

An 18xx railroad game set on Japan's Shikoku island, considered the best introduction to the 18xx genre. Buy and sell stock in railroad companies, then operate those companies to build track and run trains for revenue. The stock market rewards timely buying and selling, while the operating rounds demand efficient track-building and train management. Smaller map and fewer companies than most 18xx games means faster play and easier entry while preserving the genre's core economic tension.

Best 18xx introCompact Japan mapFull stock market gameplay

Get it

from €55

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By the numbers

Players

Best at 3–4 playersWorks with 3–5

Duration

180–240 min

Ages 14+

Complexity

3.8 / 5 β€” Heavy

BGG Rating

6.8/10

Rank #735

2.6k ratings

Published

2004

Language

Some text

Designed by

Yasutaka Ikeda

Published by

Deep Thought Games, LLC, Wild Heaven, Grand Trunk Games, Golden Spike Games

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