Kamakura
- Designer Michael Mills
- Publisher West End Games
- Illustration Larry Catalano , Ray Sternbergh
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Kamakura, players represent various clans in feudal Japan during the Kamakura Shogunate (1192-1333). You move your forces on land and sea, fight battles, and negotiate with others to become the dominant power. The game mixes Area Movement, Dice Rolling, and Simulation mechanics that demand strategic and diplomatic skills.
Who Is This Game For?
Kamakura is aimed at experienced players aged 12 and up who enjoy historical war games with negotiation. With a playtime of about 120 minutes, it suits longer game sessions. Prior experience with complex strategy games is recommended, as the game requires 2 to 6 players and has no solo mode.
How It Works
Players move their units across a map of Japan using Area Movement. Battles are resolved through Dice Rolling, combining chance and tactics. Paper-and-Pencil elements support recording negotiations and strategies. The game simulates historical power struggles and diplomatic intrigues of the Kamakura period, influenced by player maneuvering and alliances.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Michael Mills, Kamakura offers a unique blend of war, diplomacy, and Machiavellian intrigue set in historical Japan. While it lacks official awards, its detailed simulation and focus on the Kamakura era set it apart. It shares similarities with Diplomacy but emphasizes Japanese feudal and naval aspects.
Pro
- Historically grounded feudal Japan setting
- Combination of Area Movement, Dice Rolling, and Simulation
- Negotiation mechanics encourage player interaction
- Supports up to six players for diverse strategies
Contra
- No solo mode available
- Relatively long playtime of about 120 minutes
- Complexity may discourage beginners
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in feudal Japan during the Kamakura Shogunate (1192-1333), a period when the samurai class and feudalism fully developed. It features land and naval battles and the power struggles of influential clans.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to explore diplomatic options and plan your moves carefully to leverage player interactions.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
Kamakura is designed for two to six players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
A game typically lasts around 120 minutes, allowing for an extended strategic session.
What prior experience do I need?
The game targets experienced players familiar with complex strategy games.
How does this compare to similar games?
Kamakura combines Area Movement and diplomatic negotiation in historical Japan, similar to Diplomacy but focusing on Japanese feudal and naval themes.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and minimum age of 12, it is better suited for experienced players than younger family members.
What mechanic makes it special?
The mix of Area Movement, Dice Rolling, and Paper-and-Pencil simulation distinguishes Kamakura as a strategic war game with negotiation.
Fazit
Kamakura is recommended for players who appreciate historical war games with negotiation and want to play with at least two players. Its complexity and length require some gaming experience.
