# Paleo: The Initiation Rite

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2021
- **BGG Rating**: 7.6
- **BGG Rank**: —
- **Players**: 1-4 (Best with: 2)
- **Duration**: 45-60 min
- **Weight**: 2.27 / 5
- **Designers**: Peter Rustemeyer
- **Artists**: Dominik Mayer
- **Publishers**: Hans im Glück, 999 Games, Devir, Hobby World, Lucky Duck Games, Swan Panasia Co., Ltd., Z-Man Games
- **Categories**: Card Game, Expansion for Base-game, Exploration, Prehistoric
- **Mechanics**: Action / Event, Cooperative Game, Deck Construction, Scenario / Mission / Campaign Game, Simultaneous Action Selection, Variable Set-up

## Verdict
A perfect trial for those looking to test their tribe's skills or learn the ropes!Ideal gateway experienceBalanced challenge for veteransIntense, fast cooperative playGreat replayabilityRequires base gameModerate language dependencyRECOMMENDED

## Description
Get your tribe spirit ready, because the new generation of Paleo has arrived and they aren't playing around! 'Paleo: The Initiation Rite' (or Module L, for those in the know) is an expansion that plunges you straight into the heart of prehistoric survival. Imagine that four young aspirants from your tribe have grown up and now need to prove their worth to become full members. That is exactly the challenge: a trial of fire (or rather, hunting and gathering) where players must cooperate to ensure these youths pass their initiation exams.

For those just arriving in the Paleo universe, this module is a true gift. It acts as a perfect gateway, making it ideal for players who want to learn the mechanics without the heavy weight of a super complex campaign right out of the gate. But don't be fooled by its apparent simplicity: if you are already a veteran who has mastered exploration routes and resource management, the Initiation Rite will still make you break a sweat with well-balanced challenges. It can be played as an alternative to Level I, or even combined with modules A or B to create an even richer experience.

A quick pro-tip: you can't play this module in a vacuum. It is an expansion, meaning the base game 'Paleo' is mandatory for the fun to happen. The cooperative dynamic is the highlight, requiring all players to align their strategies so the new generation doesn't end up as mammoth snacks. It is a test of synchrony, hand management, and, of course, plenty of luck with event cards. If you are looking for a quick, intense experience that celebrates teamwork, this rite of passage is your next destination!

## How to Play
Objective of the Game
In The Initiation Rite, a new generation has grown up and must prove themselves. The four candidates must each pass a test to become full members of the tribe. This module is designed to be played with the Paleo base game and serves as an alternative to Level 1 or a way to introduce new players to the game.

Preparation (Setup)
To set up this module, follow these steps:

    Mission cards: Prepare the Mission cards as usual.
    Secret cards: Prepare the Secret cards.
    Candidate cards: Take the 4 candidate cards: „Junger Krieger“ (Young Warrior), „Junge Späherin“ (Young Scout), „Junge Handwerkerin“ (Young Crafter), and „Naturtalent“ (Natural Talent).
    Distribute Candidates: Divide the 4 candidates equally among all players. If playing with 3 players, one player receives one more candidate. Place these cards with the blue side up in your group. Important: You are not allowed to look at the green back of any candidate card or turn it over until directed to do so.
    People cards: Each player draws 2 people cards as usual and places them in their group. Note: You only receive your people after you have placed the candidates into your groups.
    Dice: Prepare 2 Dice.
    Test cards: Prepare the 17 Test cards (which have a stone symbol on the back).
    Difficulty Adjustment: To play on medium difficulty, remove the 3 cards with the Dream back from this module and return them to the box.


Game Flow
Consulte el manual para detalles sobre esta sección.

Actions and How to Play
During the game, you will interact with candidates and Test cards using the following rules and mechanics:

Interacting with Candidates

    Placing Tools: As soon as you receive any tool depicted on a candidate card, you can place that tool token on the candidate card. 
    Tool Restrictions: If other cards ask you to place tools on candidates, you may only place the tool tokens that are depicted on that specific candidate.
    Tool Usage: The tools placed on candidates can no longer be used for normal actions. You are only allowed to use these tools for certain actions of special cards.
    Candidate Properties: Unlike other people cards, the 4 candidates do not have to be fed and cannot be harmed.


Resolving a Test
To pass a Test, you must demonstrate the required number of skills (6 in this case). You can use any combination of the 3 skills types.
When a candidate passes the test, turn the card over to its back; it then becomes a people card. If there are still tools on the candidate when it is turned, add those tools to your group.

Special Card Actions

    Cheat Card: If you wish, you can use this card during a Test. Roll 1 die. You can use the rolled skill to fulfill 1 or 2 requirements of tools that have the matching skill symbol just rolled. After rolling, destroy the cheat card regardless of whether the effect was successful.
    Overzealous Card: Search through your deck and reveal the next Test card, or return 1 tool on a candidate in your group. A fellow player can help you resolve this card by searching the Test card deck and giving it to you.


End of Game and Scoring
Consulte el manual para detalles sobre esta sección.

Tips for Winning

    Tool Management: Remember that tools placed on candidates are "locked" and cannot be used for standard actions; they are reserved specifically for special card requirements.
    Candidate Preparation: Since you cannot look at the green back of a candidate card until directed, focus on gathering the specific tools depicted on the blue side to ensure you are ready for the Test.

## FAQ
### Can I play this module without the original Paleo game?
No, this is an expansion module and strictly requires the Paleo base game to work.

### What is the average playtime?
A session typically lasts between 45 to 60 minutes, making it quite snappy.

### How many players is it for?
It is designed for 1 to 4 players in a cooperative setting.

### Is it a difficult game?
It is an excellent way for beginners to learn, but it still offers challenges that will test even experienced players.

### Do I need to be fluent in English?
Language dependency is moderate, but you might need a translation sheet or translated cards to help.

### Is it a long campaign?
It works as a specific scenario or mission, which can be used as an alternative to the initial level of a campaign.

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