Dark times plague Thebes. After King Oedipus's disgraceful departure, his sons Polynices and Eteocles were meant to rule together. Now Polynices leads an army from Argos against his brother. Theban nobles back Eteocles as he struggles to maintain control. As seven champions attack the city's gates, the Cadmea citadel lies in ruins. The Fates seem to conspire against Thebes' rulers!

As war looms, noble families whisper of new leadership and rebuilding the Cadmea.

In Thebai, players become influential noble leaders in the late Bronze Age. They must rebuild the Cadmea citadel, restore exports, pray to city gods, and protect citizens while heroes battle at the gates.

The game spans 10 rounds, each with Action and Fate phases. Players use Citizen dice and move their Archon in the Action phase, while the Fate phase offers scoring opportunities. The highest Victory Points wins.