Cleopatra and the Society of Architects

Cleopatra and the Society of Architects, a game by Bruno Cathala and Ludovic MaublancThe Queen of Queens has asked for a new Palace, a Wonder that will be the shining proof of its splendour in the eyes of the world!The challenge has begun: every member of the Society of Architects is involved, trying to demonstrate that he is the best. However, the riches promised by Cleopatra prompted some to enlist Sobek's help. There are growing rumours of rituals and ceremonies in honour of the God-Crocodile, and amulets, as well as strange inscriptions, have begun to appear on buildings under construction. We must pray that these rumours do not reach the Queen's ears! If Cleopatra can show great generosity towards those who grant her will, she is nonetheless implacable with those who betray her...Will you be the best builder, without disappointing the Queen, thus becoming the Chief Architect of the Kingdom, or will you succumb to the temptations of Sobek, at the risk of ending your career in the belly of Cleopatra's favorite pet?Will you be able to surpass your rivals to become the Architect of Cleopatra?The goal of the game is to become the richest architect of Cleopatra, building the most sumptuous parts of his Palace. Because of the intense competition within the Society of Architects, you will often be tempted to make deals with shady characters and trade in materials of dubious origin. Even if these practices may indeed allow you to remain out of reach of others, the toll to pay to benefit from them is heavy: Amulets of Corruption Cursed in honour of Sobek, the God-Crocodile, which will be stored inside your Pyramid of Corruption, sheltered from the envious gaze of your opponents...When Cleopatra finally arrives in her new Palace, at the end of the game, the architects will have to pay for their corruption. If they have been too corrupted, they will be offered to Cleopatra's sacred crocodile, like a delicate appetizer! Only the richest of the architects among the survivors will be declared the winner.