The Princes of Machu Picchu

PD-Verlag, Rio Grande Games · Board game · 2008
2–5 · best 4 90 min Weight 3.1/5
6.6 rating Ludopedia
6.9 rating BGG
Buy
6.6 rating Ludopedia
6.9 rating BGG
Our Verdict

If you enjoy a strategic euro with a distinct thematic twist and a hint of tension, 'The Princes of Machu Picchu' might be a great fit!

Highlights
  • Well-integrated mechanics
  • Engaging theme
  • Dynamic game ending
  • Strategic decisions
  • Indirect interaction
Keep in mind
  • Can be a bit long
  • Initial learning curve
  • Requires careful planning
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
In 'The Princes of Machu Picchu', you are an Inca prince who, after the arrival of the Spaniards, seeks refuge in the legendary lost city of Machu Picchu. But the threat still looms: a traitor might reveal the hideout to the invaders! Your goal is to lead your workers to grow corn, tend to llamas, plant coca, and produce ceramics and cloth, all while trying to win the loyalty of Condor Priests, Puma Priests, and Virgins of the Sun. The way the game ends is super intriguing, with two distinct possibilities. If the Incas manage to activate all priests and virgins in time, victory is theirs, and the prince who made the wisest sacrifices to the gods will be the grand winner. On the other hand, if the Spaniards discover Machu Picchu, victory goes to the invaders, and the Inca princes with the most gold will get a score multiplier, though this might not be enough to secure final victory. Your action choices are made in a really cool way: you move your prince around the city map, activating different locations to perform the necessary tasks. Get ready for a race against time and betrayal, where strategy and resource management are key to your people's survival and glory!
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 REC
4 BEST
5 REC
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Game details

Families

Animals: Llamas / Alpacas Cities: Cusco (Peru) Country: Inca Empire
Publisher PD-Verlag, Rio Grande Games
Designer Mac Gerdts
Artist Oliver Graute
Frequently Asked Questions
How many players can play 'The Princes of Machu Picchu'?
The game is ideal for 2 to 5 players, offering an interesting experience at different player counts.
What is the average playtime for a game?
Prepare for a session of approximately 90 minutes, which is a good length for a mid-weight euro game.
Is it a complex game for beginners?
With a BGG weight of 3.0989/5, it falls into the medium to heavy game category. It's not for first-time board gamers, but those with some euro game experience will adapt well.
What are the main game mechanics?
It combines worker placement, area movement, set collection, and area majority/influence, creating a rich decision-making experience.
Who is 'The Princes of Machu Picchu' best suited for?
It's perfect for players who enjoy thematic euros, with resource management, mid-term strategies, and the tension of a game objective that can shift at the end.
Does the game have any language dependency?
No, the game has no language dependency in its components, making it accessible to anyone.