Modern Art
- Designer Reiner Knizia
- Publisher Hans im Glück , Arrakis Games , CMON Global Limited , DiceTree Games , Drosselmeyer & Co. Ltd.
- Illustration Carole Carrion , Manuel Carvalho , Chen Cheng-po , Mike Doyle (I) , Pete Fenlon , Gianfranco Giordano
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Modern Art, you take on the role of an art dealer trading paintings from five fictional artists. Each round, you auction cards from your hand using various auction types. The value of paintings fluctuates based on how many artworks of a particular artist have been sold. Your goal is to strategically buy low and sell high over multiple rounds to amass the most cash by the end.
Who Is This Game For?
Modern Art is designed for 3 to 5 players aged 10 and up and is considered a medium-weight game. With an average playtime of 45 minutes, it suits players who enjoy tactical auction games with economic themes. Prior experience with auctions can be helpful but is not mandatory.
How It Works
Each turn, players put a card from their hand up for auction, using mechanics like English auction, sealed bids, or turn order auctions. Players bid to buy paintings, paying the bank if they purchase their own card. The value of each artist's paintings is determined by how many were sold that round. After four rounds, the player with the most money wins. Key mechanics include Auction / Bidding, Commodity Speculation, and multiple auction formats.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Reiner Knizia, Modern Art won the 1993 Deutscher Spiele Preis for Best Family/Adult Game and was recommended for Spiel des Jahres the same year. Its mix of auction types and dynamic valuation sets it apart from other economic card games. It belongs to the Art theme family and is part of Knizia's auction trilogy.
Awards
2004
1993
1993
- 2008 JoTa Best Game Released in Brazil — Winner
- 2008 Vuoden Peli Adult Game of the Year — Nominated
- 1993 Deutscher Spiele Preis Best Family/Adult Game — Winner
Pro
- Diverse auction mechanics for varied gameplay
- Relatively short playtime of about 45 minutes
- Strategic depth through dynamic painting valuation
- Winner of the 1993 Deutscher Spiele Preis
Contra
- Playable only with 3 to 5 players
- No solo mode available
- Requires some understanding of auction mechanics
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game simulates the art market with fictional artists and paintings. Players act as art dealers navigating a market driven by supply and demand.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Pay attention to how artist values shift each round and adjust your bids accordingly to maximize profit.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Modern Art is designed for 3 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 45 minutes, suitable for a tactical card auction session.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic familiarity with auction mechanics helps but is not required to learn Modern Art.
How does this compare to similar games?
Modern Art stands out with its variety of auction types and dynamic card valuation compared to other economic games.
Is this suitable for families?
Recommended for ages 10 and up, it fits families with some gaming experience and interest in economic themes.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of multiple auction formats with commodity speculation distinguishes Modern Art.
Fazit
Modern Art is recommended for players who appreciate strategic auction games with economic depth. It works best with three or more players interested in mid-length, tactical card games.
