Septima

Mindclash Games, Maldito Games, Portal Games · Board game · 2023
1–4 · best 3 Solo 50–100 min Weight 3.7/5
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
8.3 rating Ludopedia
7.3 rating BGG
Our Verdict

Perfect for those who love direct interaction and strategy, featuring a very innovative shared bonus system.

Highlights
  • Beautiful hand-drawn artwork
  • Dynamic simultaneous action mechanics
  • Very high player interaction
  • High-quality wooden components
Keep in mind
  • Strategic weight might intimidate beginners
  • Witch 'stealing' risk might frustrate some
RECOMMENDED
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About the game
Imagine a world where magic has almost vanished, surviving only in the secrecy of a few witches living on the fringes of society. You are the leader of a coven, and your goal is clear: prove to the Septima, the High Witch, that you are the worthy successor. To do this, you must leave your mark on the town of Noctenburg, practicing the craft of witchcraft while avoiding the prying eyes of witch hunters.

The heart of the game is simultaneous action selection. Each turn, everyone secretly chooses one of nine action cards (such as Collect, Heal, or Brew). The twist is that if you perform the same action as another player, both receive a powerful bonus. However, this unexpected teamwork raises suspicion among the townsfolk and attracts the attention of the witch hunters. It's the classic dilemma: you want the bonus, but you don't want to be exposed. It's a competitive game with a semi-cooperative touch that creates great player dynamics.

Beyond gathering herbs and brewing potions to gain wisdom, you must expand your Coven. By leveraging influence and convincing the locals, you can rescue convicted witches during trials. Each new witch brings unique abilities, allowing you to customize your strategy. Interestingly, if an opponent is reckless and loses a witch to the hunters, you can use your influence to 'steal' that witch into your own coven!

Visually, the game is stunning, featuring hand-drawn art and wooden components that bring the mystical atmosphere to the table. Despite having deep strategic layers (with a weight of 3.65), it is surprisingly intuitive and quick to set up, ensuring the fun starts immediately without hours of rulebook reading. If you enjoy games where player interaction is constant and resource management is essential, Septima is the perfect choice.
Rules videos

In English

BEST PLAYER COUNT
1 REC
2 REC
3 BEST
4 REC
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Game details

Categories

Families

Components: Game Trayz Inside Components: Gems/Crystals Components: Meeples (Animal) / Animeeples Components: Official Music Soundtrack Components: Wooden pieces & boards Crowdfunding: Kickstarter Digital Implementations: TableTop Simulator Mod (TTS) Misc: LongPack Games Theme: Witches
Publisher Mindclash Games, Maldito Games, Portal Games, Skellig Games, Super Meeple, YOKA Games
Designer Robin Hegedűs
Artist Barbara Bernát, Villő Farkas
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the game too complex for beginners?
It has a significant strategic weight (3.65), but Mindclash Games designed it to be intuitive. If you've played a few modern games, you'll pick it up quickly!
How long does a 4-player game take?
Even with a full table, games usually last less than 2 hours, thanks to the simultaneous action selection that eliminates downtime.
Is there a solo mode?
Yes, the game supports 1 to 4 players, so you can test your witchcraft skills even in solo mode.
Are the components high quality?
Absolutely! The game uses wooden pieces and features hand-drawn art that makes the visual experience very immersive.
What is the main interaction dynamic?
Forced cooperation: you can benefit from performing the same action as a rival, but it increases the risk for both of you to be caught by the hunters.