Chicago 1875: City of the Big Shoulders (Masterprint edition 26) (New 2025 edition)

After the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the determined citizens of Chicago set out to rebuild their city, ushering in an unprecedented era of economic growth. Over the next six decades, the city transformed into an industrial and financial powerhouse, culminating in the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 and the Century of Progress Exposition in 1933. During this time, many of America’s most iconic brands—Oscar Mayer, Kraft, Quaker Oats, Nabisco, Swift & Co, Armour & Co, Schwinn Bicycles, and Charles Schwab—were founded, shaping the nation’s economic landscape.

Chicago 1875: City of the Big Shoulders is a critically acclaimed economic strategy game for 1 to 4 players that masterfully blends stockholding, company management, and worker placement mechanics. Players take on the roles of ambitious investors and entrepreneurs, competing to establish and expand some of Chicago’s most influential industries. You’ll start and manage companies, trade shares, hire employees, equip factories, and oversee production chains that fuel the city’s booming economy. Every decision impacts your company’s valuation, wealth, and ultimate standing in Chicago’s cutthroat business world.

Drawing inspiration from classic 18XX-style financial games, Chicago 1875 introduces a deeply strategic marketplace, dynamic player interactions, and a layered financial system that rewards long-term planning and shrewd investments. At the same time, its Eurogame-inspired mechanics—such as worker placement, resource management, and careful economic optimization—make it an engaging and accessible experience for strategy enthusiasts beyond the 18XX niche.

With its rich historical theme, intricate mechanics, and high replayability, Chicago 1875 appeals to both hardcore economic gamers and those looking for a deep yet approachable strategic challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned 18XX veteran or a Eurogame fan seeking an immersive financial experience, this game will put your business acumen to the test. Will you build a lasting empire, or will the shifting tides of industry leave you behind?

This new 2025 edition features:

• A new and updated Game board,
• A completely revised rulebook
• A new solo mode designed by Pedro A. Correia
• New and updated player aids
• New and updated Advanced player aids
• Linen finished cards
• Upgraded Company Charters
• Includes the Burden of destiny expansion! Which features 5 new companies
• New silkscreened Company tokens
• A new, custom-designed insert, designed by Black Magic Inserts
• New “Advanced Supply Chain” mini expansion
• New “Chief Capital Assets” mini-expansion