Caral

About this board game

Caral is a board game for 2–4 players, with play lasting about 120 minutes, in which master builders create pyramids in an ancient civilization over 4,500 years ago.

Players compete while taking part in a rhythmic cycle of years, each influencing how long that cycle lasts. This shared progress rhythm creates pressure around the table: every decision can affect the pace of the game and the opportunities available to fellow builders.

Caral begins with rules that are easy to approach, then develops into a surprisingly complex tactical experience. As you move along the spiral path, alpacas and resource cards provide additional flexibility. Choosing how to use these tools is central to adapting your plans as the game unfolds.

The annual ceremony adds another important decision. You may sacrifice valuable cards to gain advantages over your opponents, creating a tension between keeping useful resources and spending them at the right moment. Success depends on understanding how the interlocked mechanics work together and choosing when to apply pressure.

• Build pyramids through a distinctive cycle of years.
• Influence the duration and rhythm of that cycle.
• Use alpacas and resource cards for greater flexibility on the spiral path.
• Sacrifice cards during the annual ceremony for tactical advantages.

Different modules let you adjust the level of complexity, making the game suitable for family play as well as experienced gamers. Presented in a chronicle-style progression, Caral can become your own evolving game experience as you explore its interlocking systems.