Dark times loom over the kingdom of Thebes! Once ruled by the noble yet blind king Oedipus, the city now finds itself in turmoil as his sons, Polynices and Eteocles, vie for control. Power has proved corrupting, and ancient family feuds are reignited. Polynices has rallied an army from the rival city of Argos, ready to clash with Eteocles, who struggles to maintain his rule with the support of Theban nobles. As tension mounts, Eteocles urgently calls upon defenders to protect the seven gates of the city. Meanwhile, Polynices and his seven champions prepare for the inevitable siege. In the shadows, the famed citadel of Thebes, the Cadmea, lies in disarray. Will the Fates align against the rulers, or can the tide be turned? In Thebai, players step into the shoes of powerful leaders from noble families during this chaotic late Bronze Age. Your mission? Rebuild the majestic Cadmea, restore the city’s exports, invoke the gods, and safeguard the lives of citizens—all while fierce battles rage outside the walls. The game unfolds over 10 thrilling rounds, each featuring an Action phase and a Fate phase. During the Action phase, players roll a Citizen die and maneuver their Archon on the Cadmea. In the Fate phase, seize additional scoring opportunities by showcasing your accomplishments and fortifying the city gates. At the end of the game, the player with the most Victory Points claims victory and earns their place in the annals of Theban history. Can you navigate the treacherous waters of power and emerge as the ultimate leader? The fate of Thebes rests in your hands!
