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1655: Habemus Papam

1655: Habemus Papam

3-4
Players
30
Minutes
10+
Age
2010
Published

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What to Expect

In 1655: Habemus Papam, players take on the roles of cardinals during the 1655 papal election in Rome. Through bidding and collecting vote cards, players compete to gain the most votes using bribery and political tactics. The game builds suspense until the white smoke signals the new pope's election.

Who Is This Game For?

Designed for 3 to 4 players aged 10 and up, this 30-minute game is a light to medium-weight strategy card game suitable for players who enjoy quick, tactical gameplay. It requires some experience but no heavy prior knowledge.

How It Works

Players bid in auctions to acquire vote cards, using set collection to gather majority votes. The core mechanics of auction/bidding and set collection require players to carefully plan and outmaneuver opponents to win the papal election.

Auction / Bidding Set Collection

What Makes It Special

Designed by Christoph Bauer, 1655: Habemus Papam won the 2011 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up award. It belongs to the DDD Verlag Small Box Games series and uniquely blends auction and set collection within the historical papal election setting.

Awards

  • 2011 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up — Nominated

Pro

  • Short playtime around 30 minutes
  • Tactical blend of auction and set collection
  • Historical theme of the 1655 papal election
  • 2011 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up

Contra

  • Only for 3-4 players
  • No solo mode available
  • Less suitable for families with young children

Setting & Atmosphäre

Set in Rome in 1655, the game centers around the papal conclave where cardinals vie for the position of pope amid religious and political intrigue.

Tipp für Einsteiger

Focus on collecting vote cards and watch other players’ bids carefully to improve your chances.

Häufige Fragen

Can I play this solo?

No, 1655: Habemus Papam is designed for 3 to 4 players and has no solo mode.

How long does a game really take?

A typical game lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick session.

What prior experience do I need?

The game is medium complexity and suitable for players aged 10 and up, requiring some tactical thinking but no extensive experience.

How does this compare to similar games?

Its unique mix of auction and set collection in a historical papal election setting sets it apart.

Is this suitable for families?

Due to its complexity and theme, it’s better suited for families with older children.

What mechanic makes it special?

The combination of auction/bidding and set collection mechanics offers engaging tactical gameplay.

Fazit

1655: Habemus Papam offers a quick, thematic card game experience for 3-4 players, especially appealing to fans of historical and tactical card games.