Schraumen
- Designer Urs Hostettler
- Publisher F.X. Schmid , Fata Morgana Spiele
- Illustration Res Brandenberger
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Schraumen, players enact nonsensical laws written on scrolls, bidding with plum tokens that serve as both currency and victory points. The game involves reading and applying quirky rules that affect plum distribution while auctioning for new scrolls. Players must manage their hand and adapt to changing rules, aiming to finish with the most plums. The game emphasizes interaction and negotiation based on evolving game laws.
Who Is This Game For?
Designed for 3 to 8 players aged 13 and up, Schraumen is a medium-complexity game lasting about 60 minutes. It suits players who enjoy interactive card games with auction elements and are comfortable with moderate rules complexity. Prior experience with bidding games helps but is not required.
How It Works
Players start with plum tokens and scroll cards that define game rules. Taking turns, players read scrolls to enact rules affecting plum distribution or burn them if rules can't be followed. New scrolls are auctioned silently, and players bid with plums. The goal is to strategically acquire and apply rules to maximize your plum count. The game ends when all scrolls are taken or a scroll’s text triggers the end.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Urs Hostettler, Schraumen stands out for its unique blend of auction and mutable rules. It was recommended for Spiel des Jahres 1992 and was runner-up for the Fairplay À la carte award the same year. Its absurd theme and rule management distinguish it from typical card games.
Awards
1992
- 1992 Fairplay À la carte Runner-up — Nominated
Pro
- Unique combination of auction and evolving rules
- High player interaction through bidding and rule enforcement
- Spiel des Jahres 1992 recommended
- Supports 3 to 8 players
Contra
- Not suitable for solo play
- Age limit of 13+
- Requires patience and rule comprehension
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in a fictional nonsense culture where players enact absurd laws using scrolls and plums as currency, framing the gameplay in a whimsical world.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on understanding the impact of rules and managing your plum tokens wisely.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Schraumen is designed for 3 to 8 players and has no solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts about 60 minutes, fitting a standard game evening.
What prior experience do I need?
Basic familiarity with card games and auction mechanics is helpful but not mandatory.
How does this compare to similar games?
Schraumen uniquely combines auction with changing rules, setting it apart from other card games.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and age recommendation of 13+, it is better suited for experienced players than families with young children.
What mechanic makes it special?
The auction / bidding mechanic paired with dynamic rule changes defines the gameplay.
Fazit
Schraumen is recommended for players seeking unusual, interactive card games with auction mechanics. It's less suited for families with younger children due to complexity and age requirements.
