Medici
- Designer Reiner Knizia
- Publisher AMIGO , ABACUSSPIELE , APE Games , asmodee , Devil Dice Games
- Illustration David Cherry , Vincent Dutrait , Dominique Ehrhard , Jun Suemi , Kelly Vizma , Franz Vohwinkel
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Medici, players compete over three rounds to collect the most points by bidding on sets of commodity cards. Each turn, one to three cards are revealed for auction, and the highest bidder takes all. Cards represent different commodities with values, aiming to build the most valuable cargo. Rounds end when ships are full or cards run out. Points are awarded for the largest quantities and highest total cargo value after each round.
Who Is This Game For?
Medici is a medium-weight game suitable for players aged 10 and up who enjoy auction mechanics and set collection. With about 60 minutes playtime, it fits well into game nights and does not require extensive prior experience. It's also suitable for families with older children interested in strategic bidding.
How It Works
The game uses Auction / Bidding and Auction: Once Around mechanics, where players bid on open cards with the highest bids winning the sets. Victory Points as a Resource means players spend their points to bid, adding tactical choices. Push Your Luck and Set Collection elements require deciding when to stop bidding and which commodity sets to pursue.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Reiner Knizia, Medici won the 1995 Meeples Choice Award and was recommended for Spiel des Jahres the same year. It is part of Knizia's Florentine auction trilogy and a classic in auction-style games, set thematically in Renaissance Italy's merchant cities.
Awards
1995
- 1995 Meeples Choice Award — Winner
Pro
- Classic auction game by Reiner Knizia
- Approximately 60 minutes playtime suitable for game nights
- Easy-to-learn rules with strategic depth
- Supports 2 to 6 players
Contra
- No solo mode available
- May be complex for very young players
- Game length requires patience from all players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in Renaissance Florence, a time of thriving trade and powerful merchant families. Players take on the roles of merchants bidding on valuable goods to fill their ships.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus first on understanding the auction mechanics and use your points strategically to secure valuable cards.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Medici 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 60 minutes, suitable for an evening session.
What prior experience do I need?
Medici is a medium-weight game ideal for players with some experience in auction games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Medici uniquely combines Auction: Once Around and Victory Points as a Resource, making for tactical bidding in Knizia's auction trilogy.
Is this suitable for families?
Recommended for ages 10+, Medici suits families with older children interested in strategic auctions.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Auction: Once Around and Victory Points as a Resource adds tactical depth to the bidding.
Fazit
Medici is a solid auction game for 2-6 players that appeals to fans of set collection and tactical bidding. Those interested in historical trading themes with a 60-minute playtime should try it.
