8.9
rating
Ludopedia
8.2
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you love euros with strong themes and want to rebuild Lisbon while collecting wigs, this game is a treasure — in the best sense.
Highlights
- Memorable theme
- Real downtown map
- Tight rewarding economy
- Functional solo mode
- Premium production
Keep in mind
- High weight for newcomers
- Long rounds with 4 players
- Steep learning curve
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
On November 1, 1755, Lisbon was rocked by a devastating earthquake, followed by a tsunami and fires that reduced the city to rubble. The Marquis of Pombal took charge of the reconstruction and gathered engineers and architects — but players are noblemen using their influence to build a new city. Yes, you read that right: the ultimate goal isn't glory or fortune, it's wigs. In Lisboa, each game takes place on a real map of downtown Lisbon, where the permitted business type for each street was already determined. The economic engine is the royal treasury, whose control shifts every game. Each round, you place a card on your personal display or swap one out. By scheduling hearings, you earn character favors that unlock commerce, construction, and inaugurations. Iconic buildings generate income and points; stores keep the economy rolling. Managing influence, permits, church power, workers, and money is the game, and the cost of each worker depends on your prestige. The winner is whoever collects the most wigs by the end of the rounds. With a medium-high weight and playtimes ranging from 60 to 120 minutes, Lisboa is a dense but rewarding experience — perfect for players who like to think several moves ahead while rebuilding one of the world's most beautiful cities.
GALLERY
11 photos · from the community
Tap any photo to open fullscreen. Photos submitted by the community or publisher.
In English
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Gaming Rules! - Lisboa Full Rules Video
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Heavy Cardboard Teaches Lisboa & Full Playthrough! (2nd play w/Top-down view)
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Lisboa Preview by Man Vs Meeple
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Heavy Cardboard - Lisboa - Teaching & full play through
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LISBOA: Nice and Slow Tutorial Followed by a Complete Solo Playthrough (Corrected)
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Lisboa: How to Play
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How To Play Lisboa Fast and Easy! Board Game Tutorial in 15 Minutes
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Lisboa: Nice and Slow Tutorial and a Complete Solo Playthrough
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Learn to Play Lisboa
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Lisboa Unboxing Video
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Game overview and interview with Vital Lacerda (Essen 2017)
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Idle Red Hands: Lisboa Organizational Unboxing
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Eagle-Gryphon Games, Angry Lion Games, Delta Vision Publishing, Giochix.it, hobbity.eu, Lavka Games
Designer
Vital Lacerda
Artist
Ian O'Toole
How long does a game take?
Between 60 and 120 minutes, depending on the number of players and the group's pace.
What's the ideal number of players?
Plays very well with 2 to 3 players, but supports 1 (solo) and up to 4.
Is it hard to learn?
It has a notable learning curve — the rulebook is dense, but once you get the hang of it the gameplay flows quickly.
What are the wigs and why are they the goal?
Wigs are the victory resource. In the historical context, they were the most coveted item of the era. Whoever collects the most by the end of the rounds wins.
Does it have a solo mode?
Yes, it includes a solo option that works well and keeps the tension of the game.
Is it worth it if you don't know Lisbon's history?
Absolutely — the theme is naturally absorbed through gameplay, and the real downtown map makes the historical context speak for itself.