My Take On Operations "Game"

[shaygetz]

I like the idea, I've seen similar ones, especially in the UK forums with their fiddle yards. It appeals to me primarily because it is a simple table game-like scenario that can be done with inexperienced guests and small layouts. By using a simple forward/stop/reverse switch with a set speed, there's no room for newcomer fears as everyone runs at the same speed. My modifications for my smaller regularly operated roster---19 cars, 4 locos, 6 sidings---will include laminated cards with a picture of each piece of rolling stock, siding, locomotive and "Chance Cards". Operators draw 6 car cards and a corresponding siding to go with each car, a loco to do it with and a chance card. The chance cards will include scenarios such as timed commuter trains, hot boxes, wreck trains, derailments both minor and major and change orders...operators will draw one of these, two as experience grows. Car traffic also increases as experience grows, i.e. 9 cars instead of 6 and so on. The locomotive is drawn by chance by the first operator and used by all others throughout the night. All remaining cars currently in the sidings must remain where they were when the new car is dropped/moved.

I look forward to seeing you hammer yours out.