Avignon: A Clash of Popes

Button Shy, Frosted Games, Matagot · Board game · 2016
2 · best 2 10–20 min Weight 1.5/5
5.0 rating Ludopedia
6.1 rating BGG
Buy · from US$ 9.12
5.0 rating Ludopedia
6.1 rating BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED

Fans of quick influence skirmishes will love Avignon! It delivers punchy action in a flash.

Highlights
  • Fast and fun influence
  • Direct papal showdown
  • Pull‑card mechanic
  • Great for two players
Keep in mind
  • Short playtime may feel repetitive
  • Card repetition can be tiring
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Avignon: A Clash of Popes throws you straight into the papal showdown of the 14th century. In a quick 10‑to‑20‑minute session, two rival candidates battle it out over a deck of cards, vying for the favor of cardinals, nobles, and knights. Every character card carries a unique power that lets you yank cards into your congregation or force your opponent to push them in the opposite direction. The goal is simple: be the first to collect three characters on your side of the table and claim the Throne of Saint Peter. What makes this micro‑game stand out is its lightning‑fast pace and its area‑majority influence mechanic, which demands that you stay on top of not only your own moves but also your rival’s. The fatigue‑free theme of medieval politics and religion gives the game a flavor of historical intrigue, while the compact, wallet‑sized format keeps it portable. Even though it’s a bite‑size title, Avignon packs a strategic punch: a single card can swing the balance, and the order in which you play it can be the difference between triumph and defeat. If you’re into games that reward quick decision‑making, influence skirmishes, and a dash of history, Avignon is a solid pick. It’s ideal for those looking for a light yet deep experience that can be played during a break or in a casual game night with friends. Get ready to pull, push, and most importantly, persuade the powerful clergy to rally behind your cause.

Rules videos

Learn by watching before you open the box

1 videos

Best player count

BGG community vote

Duel · 2 players
2 BEST

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Cities: Avignon (France) Components: Map (Continental / National scale) Containers: Wallets Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Game: Avignon – A Clash of Popes Players: Two-Player Only Games Religious: Christianity Religious: Pope Series: Micro Game (Matagot) Series: Wallet & Box Micro Games (Button Shy)
Publisher Button Shy, Frosted Games, Matagot, Pendragon Game Studio
Designer John du Bois
Artist Fabrice Weiss

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

7 questions
How long does a game last?
Typically between 10 and 20 minutes, depending on play speed.
How many players can play?
The game is designed for two players only.
What is the complexity level?
Medium – it requires quick strategic decisions but is approachable.
What components are included?
A deck of cards, a score marker, and a rule sheet.
Who is this game for?
Perfect for fans of influence battles, medieval politics, and short games.
How does the influence mechanic work?
You aim to control areas (congregations) by pulling cards to your side or forcing the opponent to do so.
Are there expansions or variants?
No official expansions are available; the game is complete as released.

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