The 3 Commandments
- Designer Friedemann Friese , Gordon Lamont , Fraser Lamont
- Publisher BeWitched Spiele , Rio Grande Games
- Illustration Fréderic Bertrand
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In The 3 Commandments, each player takes turns as the High Priestess who secretly sets the rules of her religion. Other players try to deduce these rules by observing actions, including body language and tone, to earn karma points. The High Priestess awards points based on how well players’ actions align with her secret rules. The game blends social interaction with deduction in short rounds.
Who Is This Game For?
This game suits fans of party games and fantasy themes aged 10 and up. It is easy to learn, has a short playtime, and is designed for groups of three or more. No prior experience is needed, focusing on observation and deduction skills.
How It Works
Each player becomes the High Priestess once, secretly selecting four cards that define rewarded and taboo actions. Other players move pawns trying to infer these rules through induction, pattern recognition, and memory. The High Priestess awards points based on players’ adherence to the secret rules, encouraging balanced difficulty.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Friedemann Friese, Gordon and Fraser Lamont, The 3 Commandments combines deduction with roles featuring asymmetric information. It was nominated for the 2009 Golden Geek Best Party Board Game. The inclusion of nonverbal communication and secret rule-setting distinguishes it from typical deduction games.
Awards
2009
Pro
- Incorporates nonverbal communication as a gameplay element
- Short playtime around 45 minutes
- Accommodates 3-7 players, suitable for groups
- Combines deduction, memory, and asymmetric information roles
Contra
- Not playable solo, requires at least 3 players
- Relatively light complexity, less appealing to expert gamers
- Requires attention and observation skills
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in a fantasy world where the High Priestess leads secret religious rituals with her novices, creating a mystical ritual atmosphere.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Focus on carefully observing other players’ actions and patterns to better guess the secret rules.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, The 3 Commandments requires at least 3 players and is not designed for solo play.
How long does a game really take?
A typical game lasts around 45 minutes, including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is easy to learn as a party game and requires no special prior knowledge.
How does this compare to similar games?
It uniquely integrates nonverbal communication and asymmetric roles into a deduction game.
Is this suitable for families?
Suitable for ages 10 and up with light complexity, good for families who enjoy party games.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of deduction, memory, and roles with asymmetric information stands out.
Fazit
Recommended for players who enjoy social deduction and party games. Its short duration and simple rules make it ideal for casual groups of three or more.
