We have a Pope

Designed by Francisco Gradaille (Plantagenet and Onoda ) and with art by Jasper Rietman and graphic design by Joao Duarte, Habemus Papam is a game for 3 to 6 players, immersing players in the depths of Vatican politics, where each participating cardinal seeks not only to elect the Pope that suits him, but also to secure the future of the Church according to his own vision.

The cardinals must carefully manage their influence within the Roman Curia, jealously guarding secrets that could elevate or destroy candidacies, while maintaining an image of piety before 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 signals the outcome of each vote. The most astute cardinals will know when to reveal their hand and when to keep their true intentions hidden beneath the weight of their red hats. The art of deception intertwines 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 fundamental to the game. This resource has a dual function: influence is the currency for playing powerful cards and swaying the vote, but it's also your points, so use them wisely. In 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 secure your faction's dominance. Deduction plays a crucial role, as uncovering the hidden motives of others can shift the balance of power.

At the end of each of the first four rounds, the conclave can 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 concludes with or without a pontiff, and the final score is calculated.