18MN: Headwaters of Industry

(Self-Published) · Board game · 2026
Ludopedia BGG 2–5 180–240 min
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Our Verdict
FOR GENRE FANS

Fans of economic strategy and empire-building games will enjoy this one. A game that blends history with deep mechanics.

Highlights
  • Strategic depth
  • Rich historical theme
  • Finite resources add tension
Keep in mind
  • Requires base game to play
  • Complex for beginners
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Minnesota was built on what its railroads could carry. From the 1860s onward, tracks stretched out to the wheat fields of the Red River Valley, the vast pine forests of the north, and the iron ranges above Lake Superior, turning a young state into an engine of grain, timber, and ore. Fortunes were made and lost as small lines raced to reach the next boom, only to be absorbed into the empires that came to rule the map. This game tells that story. Based on the 18NewEngland ruleset, but with the addition of finite resources that can boost your revenues. Note: You'll need a copy of 18NewEngland and its rules to play.

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–5 players
2 OK
3 OK
4 OK
5 OK

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Admin: Upcoming Releases Series: 18xx States: Minnesota
Publisher (Self-Published)
Designer Phil Chen

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

2wishlist

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

5 questions
How many players can join?
2 to 5 players, perfect for medium-sized groups who enjoy strategy.
What's the average game duration?
Between 180 and 240 minutes, so set aside an afternoon for this strategic immersion.
Do I need another game to play this?
Yes, you'll need 18NewEngland and its rules to play this expansion.
Is it recommended for beginners?
No, this game is more suited for those with experience in complex economic games.
What's the main theme of the game?
Railroad building and resource management in 19th-century Minnesota.

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