Shadows over Macao is an engine-building game where players extend their empire by using shifty informants and establishments of ill reputation. During their turn, each player can do one of three things: contact an informant and receive their card that can be used to produce resources; spend these resources to recruit an informant permanently in their triad, and activate their special power; or build one of the available establishments. The game accelerates as the players build their engine, until each choice becomes critical to your victory!
The game ends when a player has recruited a total of 7 members in their triad, or if there are no more establishments available. Each building is worth a certain amount of money, and the richest player wins!