Condottiere
- Designer Dominique Ehrhard , Duccio Vitale , Justin Kemppainen
- Publisher Eurogames , Arclight Games , Delta Vision Publishing , Descartes Editeur , Edge Entertainment
- Illustration Dominique Ehrhard , John Goodenough , Serge Hochain , Tomasz Jedruszek , Scott Nicely , Mohammad Noureddine
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Condottiere, you take on the role of mercenary leaders in 13th century Italy. You bid with cards on provinces controlled by city-states like Florence, Venice, and Genoa to control four connected regions. Unlike standard auctions, all players lose their bids, making every decision risky. Special effect cards add unpredictability to the bidding and control battles.
Who Is This Game For?
Condottiere targets experienced players who enjoy tactical card games with bluffing and bidding. With a playtime of around 45 minutes, it suits those looking for shorter yet strategic gameplay. Some familiarity with bidding mechanics helps to grasp its nuances.
How It Works
Players use hand management and constrained bidding to place cards as bids on provinces, competing for majority control. The area majority mechanic determines control, while bluffing influences opponents' decisions. Unique to Condottiere, all players lose their bids, not just the highest bidder, requiring careful risk assessment.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Dominique Ehrhard, Condottiere was recommended for Spiel des Jahres 1995. Its blend of area majority, bluffing, and a novel bidding system sets it apart. The historical setting in Italian city-states links it to the 'Cities' game family.
Awards
1995
1995
- 1995 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up — Nominated
- 1995 Meeples Choice Award — Nominated
Pro
- Unique bidding mechanism where all players lose their bids
- Combination of bluffing, hand management, and area majority
- Historical Italian city-state setting
- Approx. 45-minute playtime for quick sessions
Contra
- Only for 2 to 6 players, no solo mode
- Requires tactical thinking and bidding experience
- May be complex for beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in 13th century Italy, focusing on the wealthy city-states of Florence, Venice, and Genoa during the Renaissance and their political and military struggles.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Balance your bids carefully and watch opponents to anticipate their strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Condottiere is designed for 2 to 6 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 45 minutes, making it suitable for shorter play sessions.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic knowledge of bidding and tactical card games helps with learning the game.
How does this compare to similar games?
Condottiere combines bluffing with a unique bidding system where all players lose their bids, unlike typical auctions.
Is this suitable for families?
With a minimum age of 10 and medium complexity, it suits families experienced with tactical card games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The constrained bidding mechanic where all players lose their bids distinguishes it from classic auctions.
Fazit
Condottiere is recommended for players seeking a tactical card game with bluff and bidding. Less suitable for those who prefer simpler bidding mechanics.
