Treasure of the Pharaohs

Palitoy Ltd. · Board game · 1974
— Ludopedia 6.4 BGG 2–6 · best 6 45 min Weight 1.7/5
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— rating Ludopedia
6.4 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

If you enjoy light, theme‑driven races, this pyramid dash will tickle your fancy.

Highlights
  • engaging thematic setting
  • fun 3D board
  • quick, easy rules
Keep in mind
  • highly luck‑driven
  • limited strategic depth
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Treasure of the Pharaohs is a 1974 classic that drops up to six adventurers into a miniature Egyptian pyramid. The three‑dimensional board, built from two triangular cardboard inserts, gives the feeling of actually being inside an ancient tomb. Each player controls an explorer and, on their turn, rolls a die or spins a spinner to move along the track, following arrows and space instructions. Along the way you encounter classic tomb hazards: the Great Stone of Cheops, a Spiral Maze, the Pit of Snakes, the Wheel of Anubis, and finally the sarcophagus that hides the treasure. The goal is to be the first to survive all obstacles and open the sarcophagus, claiming the treasure token. Components include a small plastic tub that acts as the spinner, three curse tokens, and various plastic pieces representing each danger. The rules are short and family‑friendly, yet the 3D aspect and archaeology theme add a nostalgic charm for adult players. A game lasts about 45 minutes, has low complexity (weight 1.7/5), and relies heavily on luck because movement is dice‑ or spin‑driven. Still, the branching path and the race against opponents generate enough tension to keep the session lively from start to finish.

Best player count

BGG community vote

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

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Ancient: Egypt Components: 3-Dimensional (3D) Constructions: Pyramids Country: Egypt Occupation: Adventurer / Explorer Theme: Archaeology / Paleontology
Publisher Palitoy Ltd.
Designer (Uncredited)

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

77owners
55wishlist
18want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How many players can join?
2 to 6 players.
How long does a game take?
About 45 minutes.
What is the game's complexity level?
Low; suitable for children and families.
What are the main components?
3D cardboard pyramid board, plastic hazard pieces, sarcophagus spinner, treasure token, and curse tokens.
Is the game luck‑based or strategic?
Mostly luck‑driven, as movement is determined by dice rolls or spins.
What age range is recommended?
From 6 years old, though adults who enjoy retro games will also like it.
Do I need to assemble anything before playing?
Just snap together the two triangular cardboard pieces to form the pyramid.

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