Samurai: Game of Politics and Warfare in Feudal Japan
- Designer Dan Campagna
- Publisher The Avalon Hill Game Co , Battleline
- Illustration Steve Burnett , Gordon Davis , Arnold Hendrick
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Start for freeWhat to Expect
In Samurai, you control a clan in Japan from the 12th to 17th century, fighting for the title of Shogun. Players manage lords, provinces, troops, and castles across a map of Japan’s main islands. The game spans 20 turns simulating historical events, combining area movement and ratio combat mechanics to recreate political and military power struggles.
Who Is This Game For?
Samurai targets experienced gamers and wargame enthusiasts aged 12 and up who enjoy complex, lengthy strategy games. With a playtime around 180 minutes, it requires strategic experience and patience, supporting 2 to 8 players without a solo mode.
How It Works
Each player commands a clan with lords and provinces on a map. Movement Points govern unit movement (area movement). Battles use dice rolling and a ratio-based combat results table. The turn order is progressive, adding tactical depth. Over 20 turns, players simulate feudal power dynamics and develop their influence strategically.
What Makes It Special
Designed by Dan Campagna, Samurai is a classic strategic wargame with detailed simulation of Japan’s feudal era. It features mechanics like ratio combat and progressive turn order. Though it has no awards, it stands out for historical depth and supports up to 8 players, appealing to fans of area movement and simulation.
Pro
- Historically detailed simulation of Japan’s feudal era
- Supports 2 to 8 players, good for groups
- Combines area movement, dice rolling, and ratio combat
- Progressive turn order adds tactical depth
Contra
- Long playtime of about 180 minutes
- No solo play option
- Complex rules suited for experienced players
Setting & Atmosphäre
The game is set in feudal Japan from the Kamakura through Muromachi and Sengoku periods (12th to 17th century). It focuses on political power struggles and wars among rival clans across Japan’s main islands.
Tipp für Einsteiger
Take time to learn the complex mechanics and start with the basic rules before adding optional ones.
Häufige Fragen
Can I play this solo?
No, Samurai is designed for 2 to 8 players and does not include a solo mode.
How long does a game really take?
The game takes approximately 180 minutes, allowing for an in-depth strategic experience.
What prior experience do I need?
Samurai is a complex strategy wargame best suited for players with prior experience.
How does this compare to similar games?
Samurai combines area movement with ratio combat and progressive turn order, offering detailed simulation of feudal Japan.
Is this suitable for families?
Due to its complexity and length, it is better suited for experienced players rather than families.
What mechanic makes it special?
The combination of ratio combat results and progressive turn order distinguishes Samurai from other wargames.
Fazit
Samurai is a demanding strategy game suitable for players interested in Japanese history and wargames. Its long duration and complexity require patience and experience.
