18EZ

Andrew / Clay Games · Board game · 2009
2–6 · best 4, 5, 6 60 min Weight 3.1/5
18.0 rating Ludopedia
6.0 rating BGG
Buy
18.0 rating Ludopedia
6.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Want to venture into 18xx games without getting overwhelmed? 18EZ is your guide! It teaches the system in a super didactic way, level by level.

Highlights
  • Learn 18xx gradually
  • Ideal for series beginners
  • Building and investment dynamics
Keep in mind
  • Less depth than other 18xx
  • Might seem too simple
  • Learning curve is fast
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About the game

What you do in a play session

If you've always wanted to dive into the world of 18xx games but felt intimidated by their complexity, 18EZ is your gateway! It was specifically designed to teach you the ropes of the 18xx system in a smooth and gradual way. Forget the idea of facing a massive rulebook and jumping straight into playing like a seasoned veteran. Here, we take it one step at a time.

The game is divided into levels, and each one introduces you to a new layer of rules and strategies. It starts with the basics: how to build and manage your train routes. Then, you'll dive into the exciting world of the stock market, learning how to invest and watch your money grow (or disappear!). Each new phase adds an extra flavor, keeping things engaging without overwhelming the newcomer. The goal is that, by the end of all the stages, you'll be ready to tackle any other title in the 18xx series, which would normally require hours of study and frustrating sessions just to get the hang of it.

With 18EZ, the learning curve is gentle. You learn by playing, intuitively, and gain the confidence to explore more complex games. It's the perfect opportunity to understand the dynamics of building railways, managing companies, and mastering the financial market, all in shorter, focused sessions. If you enjoy economic games with route building and a touch of investment, this is the one to try without hesitation!

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST
6 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Components: HexHex6 Grids Series: 18xx
Publisher Andrew / Clay Games
Designer Clay Murry, Drew Dane
Artist Drew Dane, Martin Tyman

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
Is this game really for 18xx beginners?
Yes! 18EZ was specifically created to be a gentle introduction to the 18xx system, teaching mechanics step-by-step through levels.
How long does a game take?
Games are relatively quick, usually around 60 minutes, as the game is designed to be more accessible and straightforward.
How many players can participate?
The game accommodates 2 to 6 players, offering flexibility for different groups.
Is the game very complex?
Compared to other games in the 18xx series, 18EZ is significantly less complex. It introduces rules gradually to facilitate learning.
Do I need to know English to play?
The in-game text is minimal, and the rules are easy to memorize, making it quite accessible even for those who are not fluent in English.
Who do you recommend this game for?
We highly recommend it for players who want to try the 18xx series for the first time, or for those looking for a more straightforward economic game with route building.

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