Marrakesh

About this board game

Marrakesh is a tactical desert race game for 2–4 players, with games lasting around 20 minutes. Designed as an adventurous children’s game for ages 6 and up, it also offers good fun for adults.

Each trader has four camels and aims to guide them across the desert to the market at Marrakesh. The market holds valuable items that provide victory points, creating a race where arriving early can make a significant difference.

Movement is controlled by drawing tiles from a bag. Most tiles let you move a camel, while others introduce special effects. Sandstorms can change the layout of the board, making the route less predictable and forcing players to adapt their plans.

• Race four camels toward the market at Marrakesh.
• Draw movement tiles from a bag to determine your options.
• React to sandstorms that alter the variable game board.
• Collect valuable market items for victory points.

The first camels to reach the market can pick up the most valuable items. However, focusing too heavily on one camel may leave your back-markers vulnerable when sandstorms reshape the desert. Successful play calls for a balance between pushing ahead and keeping your entire caravan moving.

With its changing board, simple movement system, and tactical choices, Marrakesh offers an accessible race with plenty of interaction. Released in 2002, it re-implements Up the River and provides a compact contest for families and casual players.