Biblios
- Designer Steve Finn
- Publisher Dr. Finn's Games , Asterion Press , GaGa Games , Hobby Japan , HomoLudicus
- Illustration Steve Finn , David Palumbo
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Biblios, you play as an abbot competing to build the greatest library of sacred books in a medieval monastery. You use auctions and strategic planning to acquire workers and resources across five categories, aiming to score the most victory points. The game has two phases: a donation phase with free cards and an auction phase where players bid with limited gold. Bluffing and resource management add to the tactical depth.
Who Is This Game For?
Biblios suits experienced family players and enthusiasts aged 10 and up who enjoy strategic card games with auction elements. With a playtime around 30 minutes, it fits well into short game sessions, requiring some tactical thinking and hand management skills.
How It Works
The game combines Auction / Bidding and Closed Drafting mechanics: players first receive free cards during the donation phase, then bid for cards in the auction phase using limited gold. The goal is to gather the most cards in five categories (Illuminators, Scribes, Manuscripts, Scrolls, Supplies). Set collection and hand management are key, as players balance resources and workers to maximize victory points.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Steve Finn, Biblios was nominated for the Golden Geek Best Card Game in 2008 and 2009 and was Fairplay À la carte runner-up in 2011. It is part of the Biblios series and uniquely blends auction mechanics with a medieval monastery theme, standing out among other set collection games.
Awards
2008, 2009
- 2011 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up — Nominated
Pro
- Combination of Auction / Bidding and Set Collection
- Short playtime around 30 minutes
- Strategic depth via Hand Management
- Golden Geek Best Card Game nominee 2008 and 2009
Contra
- Not suitable for players under 10 years
- Requires strategic planning; can be challenging for beginners
- No solo mode available
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in a medieval monastery, players act as abbots building a library of sacred books. The theme merges religious elements with the art of book collecting and manuscript production.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on efficient use of your gold resources and balancing card categories to maximize points.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Biblios is designed for 2 to 4 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts about 30 minutes, making it a quick card game.
What prior experience do I need?
Recommended for experienced family players aged 10+, familiar with auction-based games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Biblios uniquely combines auction mechanics with set collection in a medieval monastery theme.
Is this suitable for families?
Yes, for players aged 10 and above with some experience in strategic card games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Auction / Bidding, Closed Drafting, and Hand Management defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Biblios is a concise and tactical card game combining auction and set collection, ideal for players seeking strategic depth in a short game. Recommended for experienced families and enthusiasts.
