The object of the game is to earn the most victory points, by being the Governor who most strategically develops his idyllic island of Puerto Rico.

Players take turns choosing a role (Settler, Builder, Mayor, Craftsman, Trader, Captain or Prospector) and performing the associated action.

While each of the other players also has the chance to perform the role’s functions, only the player who chooses the role will be awarded the special privilege associated with it.