Circus Maximus

About this board game

Circus Maximus is a 45-minute board game for 3–5 players, set in 2nd-century Rome, where rival black-market gangs compete to earn the most coins.

Rome offers no shortage of entertainment, from chariot races at the Circus Maximus to dramatic performances at the Pompeius Theater and gladiatorial battles in the Colosseum. The most desirable tickets are for seats beside Caesar’s box, but obtaining them requires money and the right connections.

Each player leads a gang of black-market traders. Your traders seek favors at Caesar’s villa, purchase valuable tickets at the Forum Romanum, and then hurry to the three venues to sell those tickets to wealthy visitors. Wealthy tourists and senators are eager customers, but rival gangs are working toward the same lucrative opportunities.

• Seek favors: Send traders to Caesar’s villa to obtain useful connections.
• Buy tickets: Compete for the most profitable tickets at the Forum Romanum.
• Sell at the venues: Race to the Circus Maximus, Pompeius Theater, and Colosseum to reach the wealthiest visitor.

The game unfolds over three days of events. Every gang wants to expand its share of the black market and replace its rivals, so choosing the right tactics is essential. The challenge is to make the most cash while putting in the least effort.

After the third day, the player with the most coins wins. With its Roman setting, contested connections, desirable event tickets, and race to profitable buyers, Circus Maximus puts players in charge of a lively and competitive black-market operation.