El Capitán

About this board game

El Capitán is a Tycoon-inspired board game for 2–5 players, with an average play time of 75 minutes. Published in 2007, it presents a substantially revised version of the original game with new rules, upgraded components, expansions, and a fresh look.

The basic game introduces a new grouping of cities on the board and a new payout table for distribution. Three new Distribution Cards add further variety, while revised rules for forts and loans change how these elements are handled. Loan cards are not allowed during the first round, and the starting money has been increased from 15 to 20 florins.

• Place up to 4 multi-travel cards instead of 2.
• Build up to 12 warehouses in a city instead of 9.
• Limit warehouse series to 3.
• Follow a new rule for the first warehouse in a city.
• Use a special start-player figure to determine the new start player after a payday.

El Capitán also includes the first Portuguese Powers expansion, adding extra city boards and new strategic possibilities. Special rules support games with 2 or 3 players through additional renovation fields, while 2-player games also use specific rules for payday and additional warehouses.

With its expanded player range, updated distribution rules, revised warehouse limits, and included expansion content, El Capitán offers a broadened take on the Tycoon foundation. It was published by QWG Games in the Benelux, Pro Ludo in Germany, Ystari Games in France, and Z-Man Games in several English-speaking markets.