Mayfair Games will release a new version of the classic railroad game 1830 in March 2011.  The game has been a favorite among rail game players since its original release by Avalon Hill in 1986, and has been out of print for some time.  Mayfair’s new edition, called 1830:  Railways & Robber Barons, includes both the original game and new variants for play.

Designed by Francis Tresham, 1830 is set in the Eastern United States, and runs from the title year until the present.  It was the second game in the “18xx” series of games, which are a mainstay of the train game market.

Designed for serious play, 1830 combines two familiar styles of games:  railroad operations and stock market manipulation.  Players purchase stock in historical railroads, seeking to control them by holding the largest portion of shares.  The directors of companies operate them, building railways and running trains, to improve their stock value and pay dividends.  In the end, the player with the most valuable portfolio wins, regardless of the success or failure of any companies he might control.

The new edition features all-new artwork, as well as new game play options.  In addition to Tresham’s original rules, a streamlined basic game is included for new players.  A number of new variants have also been added for more advanced play.  The game will feature a double-sided board and rail tiles.  The suggested retail price will be $70.00.