Ra
- Designer Reiner Knizia
- Publisher alea , Ravensburger AG , 25th Century Games , 999 Games , ABACUSSPIELE
- Illustration Leonardo Borazio , Edge Studio , Zach Graves , Allison Kline , Gahyun Lee , Ian O'Toole
Track your results with Playnexi
Add this game to your collection and track sessions, scores, and statistics.
Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Ra, players bid with sun tokens to acquire tiles that grant immediate points, prevent penalties, or score at the end. The game spans three epochs where rounds may end unpredictably due to auctions. Push-Your-Luck elements create tense decisions as players expand their influence over Pharaohs, monuments, and gods. Gameplay lasts about 60 minutes, blending historical theme with dynamic auction mechanics.
Who Is This Game For?
Ra is designed for enthusiasts aged 12 and up who enjoy auction and set-collection games. With a duration around 60 minutes, it suits regular game nights. Beginners can learn it relatively easily, but strategic timing and planning are important. It is less suitable for families with young children due to complexity.
How It Works
The core mechanics include Auction / Bidding and Closed Economy Auction, where players use limited sun tokens to bid. Each player bids once per round (Auction: Once Around), making timing crucial. Collected tiles form sets that provide hidden victory points. Push-Your-Luck determines when epochs end, affecting scoring and player strategy.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Reiner Knizia, Ra won the 1999 Meeples Choice Award and is known for its elegant auction design combining set-collection and Push-Your-Luck. It belongs to the Ancient: Egypt family and stands alongside Knizia’s other auction games like Medici and Modern Art. In 2016, it received a recommendation from Juego del Año.
Awards
2000
1981
- 2023 Board Game Quest Awards Best Reprint/Reimplementation — Winner
- 2016 Juego del Año — Recommended
- 1999 Meeples Choice Award — Winner
Pro
- Elegant mix of auction and set-collection
- Tense Push-Your-Luck mechanic
- Short playtime around 60 minutes
- Famous designer Reiner Knizia
Contra
- Not ideal for families with young children
- Requires strategic timing and patience
- Lower interaction in 2-player games
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in ancient Egypt, spanning roughly 1500 years of history. Players influence Pharaohs, build monuments, farm along the Nile, and honor gods, especially the sun god Ra.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Familiarize yourself with the auction types and their impact before placing big bids.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Ra is designed for 2 to 5 players and does not include an official solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Games typically last about 60 minutes, suitable for a game night.
What prior experience do I need?
Ra is a game for enthusiasts; basic knowledge of auctions and set-collection helps.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ra uniquely combines multiple auction types with Push-Your-Luck, setting it apart from classic auction games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age recommendation of 12+, Ra is better suited to experienced players than young families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Auction: Once Around, Closed Economy Auction, and Push Your Luck defines Ra’s gameplay.
Fazit
Ra is a recommended game for players who enjoy tactical auctions and historical themes. Its mix of auction types and set-collection ensures varied gameplay. It is also accessible for beginners interested in strategic play.
