Ra
- Players
- 2-5
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 4 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 60 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 12+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 2.3 / 5
- Year
- 1999
About the game
Ra is a classic auction and set-collection game set in Ancient Egypt, where players bid sun tokens to acquire tiles representing monuments, gods, floods, and civilizations. Over three epochs, clever bidding and timing determine who builds the most prosperous civilization. Some tiles score immediately, others protect against penalties, and some pay off only at the end. Simple to learn but full of tense decisions, Ra remains one of Reiner Knizia's most beloved designs.
Hobbli's Notes
Ra is an enduring classic that shows how a handful of elegant rules can produce endless tension: every bid is a nail-biter over whether to spend now or wait for a better lot. Its bluff-free but psychologically rich auction mechanism has aged remarkably well. It's a quick teach with real depth, making it a fantastic gateway into auction-style euro games.
What we like
- Elegant auction mechanism creates constant tension.
- Quick playtime keeps sessions brisk and replayable.
- Easy to teach despite meaningful strategic depth.
- Timeless design that holds up after decades.
Keep in mind
- Auctions can feel swingy if bidding goes poorly early.
- Some players may find repeated bidding rounds repetitive.
Who it's for
Great for players aged 10+ who enjoy quick, tense auction games, in groups of 2-5.
