1844/1854

I've been a fan of 18xx games for a long time, and 1844/1854 definitely scratched that itch. This new edition combines two previously self-published designs, 1844 set in Switzerland and 1854 set in Austria, both based on the classic 1829 system by Francis Tresham.

I particularly enjoyed the 1844 map. It's beautifully done and really captures the unique landscape of Switzerland. However, I did notice a few design quirks. Some minor companies are limited to local H trains that might not reach off-board red locations, even though they start next to these locations. It seems a bit strange to me. I also found the NOB (Nordostbahn) company to be considerably stronger than the other pre-national companies, which might make it a bit unbalanced.

Despite these minor flaws, 1844/1854 is a truly engaging game, especially if you're a veteran 18xx player. The complexity of the game might be overwhelming for newcomers, and I'd recommend starting with 1830 to get a grasp of the core rules before diving into this one.

1854, set in Austria, also offers a unique experience with its stock split mechanism and separate game board for the Steyr region. I haven't had a chance to play 1854 yet, but the additional features sound very intriguing.

Overall, 1844/1854 is a great addition to the 18xx family. The gameplay is deep and strategic, and the map designs are well-done. Just be aware of the design quirks mentioned above if you're a meticulous gamer. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys complex and thematic board games, particularly those with experience in the 18xx genre.