1846: The Race for the Midwest

1846: The Race for the Midwest is a great addition to the 18xx series, offering a unique take on the westward expansion of railways across the Midwestern United States. It's a game of strategic investment and corporate maneuvering, where players buy and sell stock in railroad companies, aiming to maximize their wealth by the end of the game.

The game features several interesting mechanics that make it stand out from other 18xx games. For example, the number of corporations, private companies, and bank size scale to the number of players, ensuring a dynamic experience regardless of the player count. I also appreciated the private company draft system, which introduces an element of hidden information and randomness, making the game less predictable.

While the game is complex, it's surprisingly accessible for beginners to the 18xx genre. The rulebook is concise and well-written, and the game itself has a smaller train card count and a more linear stock market, making it easier to wrap your head around. However, experienced 18xx players may find the game a bit too streamlined and lacking in depth.

I particularly enjoyed the East-West connection bonuses, which add a strategic layer to track building. The tighter map and private company powers also contribute to the overall enjoyment. The game's replayability is high, but it's important to note that experienced 18xx players may find the game to be relatively straightforward after several plays.

Overall, 1846: The Race for the Midwest is a solid and enjoyable game that I would recommend to anyone interested in the 18xx genre. If you're looking for a lighter introduction to the genre, this game is a good starting point. However, if you're an experienced 18xx player, you might find the game a bit too simplistic.