Cangaceiros

Ergo Ludo Editions, Ares Games, Ediciones MasQueOca · Board game · 2023
2–5 · best 4 60–120 min Weight 3.2/5
8.1 rating Ludopedia
6.9 rating BGG
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8.1 rating Ludopedia
6.9 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Love Brazilian history and want a strategic game with a local theme? Cangaceiros takes you on that adventure!

Highlights
  • Strong Brazilian historical theme
  • High replayability guaranteed
  • Sharp hand management
  • Unique leader powers
Keep in mind
  • Can be a bit complex
  • Requires attention to detail
  • Combat can be risky
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Embark on the saga of the Cangaceiros, set in the Brazilian Northeast's arid backlands between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In this scenario of oppression and inequality, where landowners exploited the population and the desert punished the land, the Cangaceiros emerged as a symbol of resistance. In Cangaceiros, you lead one of these gangs, fighting for survival in a hostile territory while being relentlessly hunted by the Volantes, the state police of the era. Each game puts you in command of a gang leader, chosen from 20 unique options, each with their own abilities and characteristics that shape your strategy. Managing your seven-card deck is key: use them to gather vital resources, position your men to defend territories, attack the feared Volantes, dare an assault on Recife's prison, transform your gains into fame, or train your leader for a glorious future. Victory is achieved by accumulating the most fame points, whether by defeating enemies, fulfilling your leader's life goal and ensuring their honorable retirement, or through other feats. With varied leaders, distinct initial setups, unexpected events, and random life goals, each game of Cangaceiros promises a fresh and challenging experience, ensuring high replayability for those seeking to dive into this fascinating part of Brazilian history.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST
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Game details

Families

Country: Brazil Digital Implementations: Tabletopia
Publisher Ergo Ludo Editions, Ares Games, Ediciones MasQueOca, Schwerkraft-Verlag, Semper Victor Publishing, Zvezda
Designer Roberto Pestrin
Artist Emiliano Mammucari
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average playtime for a game of Cangaceiros?
A game of Cangaceiros typically lasts between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on the number of players and their familiarity with the rules.
How many players can participate?
The game is designed for 2 to 5 players, making it versatile for different group sizes.
Is the game very difficult to learn?
Cangaceiros has a medium-high complexity rating (3.18/5 on BGG), indicating it requires some dedication to master the strategies, but it's fully playable for those already familiar with more elaborate board games.
Do I need to know the history of the Cangaceiro movement to play?
It's not mandatory, but knowing the historical context of the Brazilian Cangaço greatly enriches the experience and immersion in the game's theme.
Are the cards in Portuguese?
There is no language dependency to play Cangaceiros, which makes it accessible to everyone.
Is it worth it for those who enjoy historical-themed games?
Absolutely! The game delves deep into the rich and dramatic history of the Cangaço, offering a very strong and engaging thematic experience.