Trieste
Victory Point Games · Board game · 2013
3 · best 3
25 min
Weight 2.2/5
—
rating
Ludopedia
6.6
rating
BGG
—
rating
Ludopedia
6.6
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
RECOMMENDED
Ideal for fans of asymmetric games with direct player interaction — like a miniature Wild West, but in Renaissance Italy!
Highlights
- Well-balanced asymmetric roles
- Fast and intense matches
- Bluffing and mind games galore
Keep in mind
- Only works with exactly 3 players
- Temporary alliances (and betrayals) guaranteed
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About the game
What you do in a play session
Trieste is a card game dripping with intrigue for exactly 3 players, each taking a unique role: the greedy Merchant, the sly Thief, or the watchful City Watch. The Renaissance city of Trieste becomes an asymmetric battleground — Merchants hoard wealth, Thieves brazenly steal, and the Watch tries to keep order (and fill the jail). The magic lies in simultaneous action selection: everyone picks a card in secret and reveals at the same time, creating 'I can't believe you did that!' moments. Each faction's abilities drastically change your strategy, turning the game into a dance of bluffs and counterattacks. In 25 minutes, someone will emerge rich, infamous, or holding the city keys — but never all three. Pro tip: play with friends who don’t hold grudges!
Gallery
Box and component photos
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Best player count
BGG community vote
3
BEST
Soundtrack
Ambience suggested by Melodice
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Mechanics, categories, families and credits
Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
Victory Point Games
Designer
Matthew Ma
Artist
Clark Miller
Community
Data from BoardGameGeek
987owners
384wishlist
73want to play
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers before you buy
Can you play with 2 or 4 players?
No — the game is designed for exactly 3 due to the faction dynamics. Trying to adapt it breaks the balance.
Is it hard to learn?
Not at all — rules fit on one page, but depth comes from role interactions. By the second game, everyone gets the flow.
Does it need translation?
Yes, cards have text. Some groups use a translated reference sheet, but icons become intuitive after a few plays.
Which role is best for beginners?
City Watch is the most straightforward. Merchant requires planning, and Thief is for risk-takers who love bluffing.
Is it too cutthroat?
Moderate — there’s sabotage, but since everyone attacks equally, it’s chaotic fun. Best with friends who don’t take it personally.
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