1825 Unit 3

Was interesting for a couple of plays but too much control on options means this plays out too similarly each time, have been enjoying 1860 for more variety with 2 players.

Good 2-player 18xx

I admit to being a bit disappointed with this. Overall it took us 4.5 hours, albeit with a lot of wading through rules. We'd probably make it through a lot quicker next time, but I think I would still struggle to finish in under 2 hours. But it wasn't that so much, as ending up with a very split board - I only had access to one tile south of the line east of Glasgow, whereas my opponent only started using track in "my half" quite late in the game. So other than my opponent (successfully) blocking my attempts to go South, there was very little interaction. I'd rate this lower than 18AL of 18SCAN (my only other 18xx games). Apparently some folk recommend Unit 2 over this one, even for a 2-player. I may give it a try. Happy to play again (provided the playing time comes down - a lot!) Edit: down to about 3 hours on next playing. Much better!

this felt like an 18xx should feel, which always surprises me in 2 player games. I just hope the game isn't over when it's known who got the second major...

11-July Played my first game last night with Charlie. Trying to decide whether or not to drop $300 for Units 1,2, and 3. It is definitely more of a route/portfolio optimization game without much of the stock dumping of 1830 (as far as I can tell, selling stocks does not drop the share price). The 2-player game took us a little over 4 hours but Charlie thinks he may have put in $5K or $6K instead of the $4K he was supposed to. Can't decide if there is enough here to warrant getting it. I have Steam Over Holland and 1860 and am getting 1830.

After having played a few more 18XXs, I'm glad I picked this up. It's a kinder, gentler 18xx without all of the stock manipulation where whoever can manage their companies best will win.

Update: Currently I'm leaning more towards the 1830 branch and so my ratings reflect that. That said, I think it's an excellent example of the 1829 line and one I wouldn't hesitate to play.