Designed by Francisco Gradaille (Plantagenet & Onoda ) and with art by Jasper Rietman and graphic design by Joao Duarte, Habemus Papam is a game for 3 to 6 players, plunging players into the depths of Vatican politics, where each participating cardinal seeks not only to elect the Pope that suits him best, but also to secure the future of the Church according to his own vision.
The cardinals will have to carefully manage their influence in the Roman Curia, jealously guarding secrets that could elevate or destroy candidates, while maintaining an image of piety among their peers and the faithful. Each player must weave their own network of allies, knowing that loyalty can be as fleeting as the smoke that marks the outcome of each vote. The most astute cardinals will know when to reveal their cards and when to keep their true intentions hidden beneath the weight of their red hats. The art of deception is intertwined with the need to build credible coalitions, creating a delicate balance between personal ambition and the greater good of the Church.
The strategic use of influence is crucial in the game. This resource serves a dual purpose: influence is the currency for playing powerful cards and influencing the vote, but it's also your points, so use them wisely. Each round, you gain more influence by promoting your interests through candidates who garner broad support, but negotiation is crucial.
Forge alliances, eliminate threats, and outmaneuver your rivals to ensure your faction's dominance. Deduction plays a key role, as uncovering others' hidden motives can shift the balance of power.
At the end of each of the first four rounds, the conclave may declare a "White Smoke" crowning a Pope and triggering the final scoring—or a "Black Smoke," signaling another round of intrigue. If no Pope is elected after five rounds, the game ends with or without a pontiff, and the final score is calculated.
