Wabash Cannonball*

Wabash Cannonball, also known as Chicago Express, is a strategic business board game that delves into the development of railroads in the United States. As part of Winsome Games' Historic Railroads System, it offers players a chance to invest in and expand the rail network, focusing on strategic growth and financial acumen.

Gameplay Overview

• Railroad Expansion Theme: Players develop the B&O, C&O, Pennsylvania, and New York Central railroads, among others, across the eastern U.S.
• Auction and Expansion: Gameplay involves auctioning shares of railroad companies, expanding rail systems, and developing hexes on the board.
• Limited Actions: Each action type is limited in availability, adding to the strategic depth of the game.
• Dividend Phases: Players earn income based on their shares in railroad companies during dividend phases.
• Game End Conditions: The game ends after eight rounds or if certain conditions regarding locomotives, shares, or houses are met.
• Victory Objective: The player with the most money at the end of the game wins.

Special Features

• Luck-Free Business Game: Emphasizes strategic planning and investment decisions over luck.
• Historic Railroad System: Part of a series that focuses on the historic development of railroads.
• Adaptable Player Count: While some editions support 2-6 players, the latest edition is designed for 3-6 players.

Conclusion

Wabash Cannonball/Chicago Express is an excellent game for players who enjoy economic strategy games with a historical context. Its focus on railroad expansion, share auctioning, and strategic investment decisions offers a compelling gameplay experience. The game is particularly appealing to those who appreciate deep strategy and a historical theme in their board games. The absence of luck-driven elements ensures that strategic planning and decision-making are key to achieving victory.