Charioteer

GMT Games · Board game · 2022
— Ludopedia 7.3 BGG 2–6 · best 5 60–120 min Weight 2.2/5
Buy · from US$ 43.87
— rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Want to feel the thrill of chariot races in Ancient Rome with a strategic and action-packed game? Charioteer delivers an intense experience with simultaneous action selection and clever hand management.

Highlights
  • Simultaneous, fast-paced action
  • Engaging hand management
  • Immersive theme
  • Accessible rules
Keep in mind
  • Language dependency on cards
  • Can be chaotic
Rules manual not indexed yet Upload the PDF rulebook to ask questions about this game with AI.

About the game

What you do in a play session

Get ready to feel the dust and the roar of the crowd in the Circus Maximus with Charioteer! In this strategic racing game set in Ancient Rome, you take the reins of a chariot and compete for glory. Forget slow starts; the action here is frantic and simultaneous: everyone chooses their moves at the same time, guaranteeing surprises and intense competition!

The secret lies in your hand of cards. Each card has multiple functions, and combining them into sets is the key to advancing. But beware, using a card for one purpose means you can't use it for another. Deciding when to make that daring move or save a powerful set to impress the crowd and earn fan tokens is crucial. Card colors determine your actions: red for attacking, yellow for recovering, black for sharp turns, and green for maximum sprint.

Your charioteer isn't just any rookie. Each one starts with unique abilities and improves them throughout the race, gaining bonuses in their preferred moves. Impressing the emperor with spectacular plays further accelerates your driver's development. Attacks can damage your chariot, reducing speed, but players focused on recovery can turn things around. And for those falling behind, the feared whips can bring about an epic comeback!

Charioteer is easy to learn, perfect for younger players and adults alike, but don't be fooled: it's a game of pure skill and strategy. Victory isn't just for those in the lead, but for those who best manage their cards, enhance their skills, and know the right time to attack or defend. Ready to become a legend on the Roman tracks?

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

3 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

2–6 players
2 OK
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST
6 REC

Where to Buy

Prices monitored daily

Finding best prices...

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability subject to change.

Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Categories

Families

Ancient: Rome Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Sports: Chariot Racing
Publisher GMT Games
Designer Matt Calkins
Artist Donal Hegarty, Kurt Miller

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

1,104owners
377wishlist
103want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can participate in a Charioteer race?
Charioteer accommodates 2 to 6 players, making it versatile for various group sizes.
How long does a game typically last?
Races in Charioteer usually take between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on the player count and familiarity with the rules.
What is the game's complexity level?
The game is considered moderately complex, with easy-to-learn rules but considerable strategic depth, ideal for those seeking an accessible challenge.
Is Charioteer a game for players who enjoy combat?
Yes, the game allows for attacks between charioteers, which can cause damage and affect speed. There's an element of confrontation, but the main focus is on the race and resource management.
Do I need to be able to read English to play Charioteer?
Yes, the game has language dependency on the cards, so using a translated reference sheet or translated cards is recommended for a complete experience.
What makes Charioteer different from other racing games?
The simultaneous action selection, hand management with multi-functional cards, and the charioteer skill improvement system bring a unique and strategic dynamic to the races.
Is it a good game for families?
With accessible rules and an exciting theme, Charioteer can be a great option for families with older children (around 10-12 years old) and adults who appreciate strategy games with a competitive edge.

Other Games You'll Like

Based on mechanics and theme

6 games