Biblios Dice

Dr. Finn's Games · Board game · 2015
2–5 · best 3 30 min Weight 1.7/5
7.0 rating Ludopedia
6.7 rating BGG
Buy
7.0 rating Ludopedia
6.7 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who enjoy fast-paced auction games with a hint of luck and bluffing. The medieval theme is charming and the dice dynamics keep the tension high.

Highlights
  • Refined artwork and components
  • Predictable and strategic auctions
  • Fast and dynamic gameplay
  • Balanced scoring system
Keep in mind
  • Moderate reliance on luck
  • Initial learning curve
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Put on your habit and grab your quill, because in Biblios Dice, you step into the shoes of a medieval monk with a clear mission: make your abbey the ultimate reference for prestige and knowledge in the region. To achieve this, you'll need valuable resources like scrolls, inks, pigments, and quills to produce sacred and historical manuscripts. But it's not just about production; you must know how to sell these works to secure the funding necessary to keep the abbey running.

The game is an evolution of the old 'Scripts and Scribes', introducing dice dynamics to add a fresh twist to the experience. The core hook is the competition across five different categories, whose values fluctuate during the match, forcing you to constantly adapt your strategy. The heart of the game beats during the auctions: depending on your dice rolls, you may find yourself in intense bidding wars to exchange gold for resources or vice versa.

If you've played previous versions, you'll notice significant improvements. The artwork is much more polished, the board has been split for better organization, and the dice are now etched, providing a premium feel. Furthermore, the rules have been tweaked for a smoother experience. Now, the ultimate goal isn't just hoarding gold, but conquering the highest amount of Victory Points (VPs).

Another crucial change lies in the auction dynamics: they are no longer completely random. By tracking the movement of a mule on the market board, you can predict when the next auction will occur, allowing for more strategic planning. Additionally, the bidding has become more rewarding: both first and second place in the auction now receive dice, ending the frustrating 'winner takes all' feeling. It's a game of management, luck, and, of course, a bit of bluffing to trick your fellow monks and lead the race for prestige.
BEST PLAYER COUNT
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC
5 REC
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Game details

Categories

Families

Components: Player Screens Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: Steam Mechanism: Artificial Player Religious: Monks/Abbots & Monasteries/Abbeys Series: Biblios (Steve Finn) Theme: Art Theme: Books / Libraries
Publisher Dr. Finn's Games
Designer Steve Finn
Artist Lawrence van der Merwe
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game too complex?
Not at all, it has a low-to-medium weight. The rules are straightforward, but the strategy of when to bid and when to bluff is where the fun lies.
How long does a game take?
It's quite fast! Games usually last around 30 minutes, making it ideal for those who want to play multiple rounds.
Does it work well with 2 players?
Yes, but the game truly shines with 3 to 5 players, where the auction battles and bluffing become more intense.
Do the dice heavily influence the outcome?
Yes, dice rolling is central, but the ability to plan based on the market and manage your resources minimizes the frustration of bad luck.
Who would you recommend this game to?
Anyone who enjoys 'push your luck' and auction games, and those looking for a thematic experience without the complexity of a heavy 'euro'.