Ninja: Legend of the Scorpion Clan (2011) Board Game

Ninja: Legend of the Scorpion Clan is a board game released in 2011 by Alderac Entertainment Group. Designed by Fréderic Moyersoen, the game is set in a fantasy world where players take on the roles of ninja warriors from the Scorpion Clan. The game combines deduction, fantasy, and miniatures elements, making it an engaging and strategic experience for 2 to 4 players.

Game Components of Ninja: Legend of the Scorpion Clan

28 miniatures (20 guards, 3 drunk guards, 1 ninja, 1 traitor, and 2 lanterns)

Full-color map of the fortress

58 cards divided into three decks (36 Lion cards for guards, 12 red Scorpion cards for the ninja, and 10 black Scorpion cards for the traitor)

Four pads of paper for marking secret movement

Four privacy screens

Six possible mission cards for the Scorpion team

How To Setup Ninja: Legend of the Scorpion Clan

Setup involves placing the miniatures and cards according to specific rules. Eight guards are placed in watch post areas, and three patrols of two guards each are positioned on the patrol track. The intruders mark their initial positions on their private maps, with the ninja starting at the edge and the traitor within the moat. Guards also mark the locations of sleeping guards, mission goals, traps, and hidden sentries on their private maps.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Hidden Movement: Intruders move secretly, marking their positions on private maps.

Deduction: Guards use cards and deductive reasoning to locate intruders.

Resource Management: Players manage card hands to execute actions.

Objective: The Scorpion team aims to complete two secret objectives and escape, while the Lion guards strive to thwart them.

Player Experience

Playing as either the Lion guards or the Scorpion intruders offers a tense and strategic experience. The game demands careful planning, use of limited resources, and a bit of luck. With each move, the intruders risk detection, and the guards must balance vigilance with the need to cover multiple areas of the castle. The dynamic between hidden movement and open detection creates a thrilling atmosphere.

Pros

Engaging Mechanics: Hidden movement and deduction create a highly engaging gameplay experience.

Variable Strategies: Multiple strategies and tricks available for both sides keep the game fresh and challenging.

Thematic Immersion: The game deeply immerses players in the Legend of the Five Rings universe.

Cons

Complex Setup: Initial setup can be time-consuming and complex.

Learning Curve: Requires some time to understand the rules and mechanics fully.

Personal Thoughts on Ninja: Legend of the Scorpion Clan

**Ninja: Legend of the Scorpion Clan** is ideal for fans of strategic and tactical games, particularly those who enjoy hidden movement and deduction mechanics. It is suited for players who appreciate a good balance of luck and planning, and it works well with 2-4 players. The game’s setting within the Legend of the Five Rings universe adds an extra layer of depth for fans of the series. However, due to its complexity, it may not be the best choice for casual gamers or those new to board games.

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