1856: Railroading in Upper Canada from 1856
- Players
- 3-6
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 4 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 300 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 14+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 4.3 / 5
- Year
- 1995
About the game
1856: Railroading in Upper Canada is a classic 18xx railway game built on Francis Tresham's 1829 mechanics, set on an abstract hex map of eastern Canada. Players buy and sell stock in rail companies, with the majority shareholder directing that corporation's track-laying, train purchases, and route decisions. The game introduces the formation of a Canadian Government Railroad along with government loans and unique obstacles to railway growth. Play ends when the bank runs dry or a player goes bankrupt, with the largest personal fortune determining the winner.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's team sees 1856 as a well-regarded entry in the 18xx canon, prized for its distinctive Canadian government railroad mechanic layered onto the tried-and-true stock manipulation core. It's a long, demanding game that rewards players fluent in 18xx conventions. As with most 18xx titles, it's a serious investment best suited to committed economic gaming groups.
What we like
- Distinctive government railroad and loan mechanics set it apart from other 18xx games.
- Deep, respected stock-manipulation core mechanics.
- Long-standing reputation within the 18xx community.
- Rewards strategic route building and share management.
Keep in mind
- Very long playtime unsuitable for casual sessions.
- Steep learning curve for players new to 18xx games.
- Requires a dedicated group familiar with stock-market mechanics.
Who it's for
Best for 3-6 experienced economic gamers aged 14+ who enjoy classic 18xx stock manipulation and railway building.
