Ikusa
- Designer Michael Gray
- Publisher Milton Bradley , Renegade Game Studios , Avalon Hill , Wizards of the Coast
- Illustration Steve Argyle , Takeshi Oga
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Ikusa, players lead factions during Japan's chaotic civil wars, bidding resources to determine turn order and acquire castles and troops. Battles are resolved with dice rolls, while players expand control over provinces and armies. Victory comes from conquering a set number of territories or defeating opponents' daimyo forces.
Who Is This Game For?
Ikusa targets experienced gamers who enjoy complex, lengthy strategic wargames. With a playtime around 360 minutes and a minimum age of 12, it is an expert-level game requiring familiarity with wargame mechanics and strategic planning.
How It Works
The game features mechanics such as Area Majority/Influence, Auction/Bidding, and Simultaneous Action Selection. Players bid koku to determine turn order and purchase castles, troops, and a ninja. Then, in turn order, they plan and carry out attacks resolved by dice rolls, blending tactical decisions with resource management and chance.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Michael Gray, Ikusa was nominated in 1987 for the Charles S. Roberts Best Pre-World War II Board Game award. It is part of a lineage starting as Shogun and later renamed Samurai Swords. The game uniquely combines auctions, area control, and dice combat within a historical Sengoku Japan setting.
Awards
- 1987 Charles S. Roberts Best Pre-World War II Board Game — Nominated
Pro
- Deep strategic complexity through area influence and auctions
- Historically themed Sengoku Japan setting
- Strong blend of planning, bidding, and dice combat
- Includes simultaneous action selection for dynamic gameplay
Contra
- Very long playtime around 6 hours requires patience
- Complex ruleset not suited for beginners
- Minimum age 12 limits younger players
Setting & Atmosphäre
Set in feudal Japan during the Sengoku period, Ikusa immerses players in a time of civil war where rival clans vie for dominance as Shogun across the islands of Japan.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to understand auction and area control mechanics before exploring complex strategies.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Ikusa supports 2 to 5 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
Games typically last about 360 minutes, including setup.
What prior experience do I need?
The game is aimed at experienced players familiar with complex wargames and strategic planning.
How does this compare to similar games?
Ikusa uniquely combines auctions, area control, and dice combat in a classic Michael Gray design set in Sengoku Japan.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its length and complexity, Ikusa is better suited for experienced players rather than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The blend of Auction/Bidding, Area Majority/Influence, and Simultaneous Action Selection defines its gameplay.
Fazit
Ikusa is recommended for strategy enthusiasts with ample time and interest in historical wargames. Its long duration and complexity make it less suited for casual players.
