Capitol
- Designer Alan R. Moon , Aaron Weissblum
- Publisher Schmidt Spiele
- Illustration Claus Stephan
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
Up to four players compete as architects in ancient Rome to construct the most spectacular buildings and dominate Roman prefectures. The game consists of four rounds, each with building, auction, scoring, and card-drawing phases. Players decide building heights, place roofs that determine style, and bid on special structures like temples and amphitheaters for extra points.
Who Is This Game For?
Capitol is suitable for experienced gamers aged 10 and up who enjoy a blend of area control, resource management, and auctions. With a typical playtime of around 60 minutes, it fits well into an evening gaming session. Prior experience with strategic engine-building games is beneficial.
How It Works
The game combines Area Majority / Influence, Auction / Bidding, and Progressive Turn Order mechanics. Players build structures either at the board edge or on the board itself if permitted. Auctions allow bidding on special buildings for bonus points. The player turn order shifts progressively, adding tactical depth to timing decisions.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Alan R. Moon and Aaron Weissblum, Capitol was nominated for the Meeples Choice Award and recommended for Spiel des Jahres in 2001. It belongs to the ancient Rome theme family and uniquely blends territory control with auctions and engine-building elements, offering a distinct building and bidding experience.
Awards
2002
2001
- 2001 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Combines area majority, auctions, and progressive turn order
- Thematically rich ancient Rome setting
- Spiel des Jahres recommended in 2001
- About 60 minutes playtime for experienced players
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Requires patience for strategic planning
- Complexity might be too high for younger families
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in ancient Rome where players act as architects competing to build impressive structures and control Roman prefectures.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding the building and auction phases before exploring complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Capitol is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 60 minutes, suitable for an evening session.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic experience with strategic and engine-building games is helpful.
How does this compare to similar games?
Capitol uniquely combines area control with auctions and progressive turn order in an ancient Rome setting.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to complexity and recommended age of 10+, it is better for experienced family gamers.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of area majority, auction bidding, and progressive turn order defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Capitol is recommended for strategic gamers seeking a complex and thematic building game. It is less suited for families with younger children due to its complexity.
