Bushido (2011) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Bushido is a two-player board game that was released in in 2011. It is set in a fantasy world where players take on the roles of skilled fighters battling each other to prove their worth. The game features beautifully designed miniatures and a variety of gameplay mechanics that make each match unique and exciting.

Game Components of Bushido

32mm metal miniatures

Profile cards summarizing each miniature’s stats and special abilities

Dice for resolving actions and combat

Rulebook

Starter sets containing balanced faction forces and necessary components for play.

How To Setup Bushido

To set up Bushido, players first choose their factions and assemble their forces, typically consisting of 4-8 models per side. Each player prepares their profile cards and ensures they have the necessary dice. The game is played on a relatively small 2-foot-square board, which helps to avoid the lengthy setup and initial turns often found in other miniatures games. Players place their miniatures on the board according to the scenario or battle objectives they are playing out.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Mechanics

Alternating Activations: Players alternate activating models, with each model having two action points to spend on actions such as movement, attacks, or special abilities.

Fatigue System: Models have conditions (Rested, Tired, Exhausted) that affect their ability to activate multiple times in a turn.

Ki Mechanism: Characters recover Ki points each turn, which can be used for special Ki feats like attacks, buffs, debuffs, or healing effects.

Combat System: Based on opposed dice rolls, where players roll dice equal to their relevant stat and compare the highest rolls.

Game Objective

Players aim to outwit, outfight, and outlive the opposing force while fulfilling their battle objectives and denying the enemy theirs. The goal is to maintain or disrupt the balance of Ki forces in the universe, depending on the faction’s goals.

Player Experience

Bushido offers a fast-moving and flexible gameplay experience filled with strategizing and counter-strategizing. The game’s design ensures that both players are constantly engaged, making tactical decisions and adapting to the evolving battlefield. The fatigue system and alternating activations create a dynamic where each move can significantly impact the next, requiring players to think critically and react swiftly.

Pros

Accessible: Small number of models and a compact playing space make it great for beginners.

Engaging Mechanics: Alternating activations and the fatigue system keep both players engaged throughout the game.

Strategic Depth: The Ki mechanism and combat system introduce tactical elements that require thoughtful planning.

Well-Sculpted Miniatures: The miniatures are distinct and well-crafted, adding to the game’s aesthetic appeal.

Cons

Complex Keywords: Each character has several key words corresponding to special rules, which can be difficult to keep track of.

Learning Curve: New players may need time to master the special rules and Ki feats, especially for certain factions like the Cult of Yurei.

Personal Thoughts on Bushido

Bushido is ideal for players looking to dive into tabletop miniatures games without the overwhelming complexity of larger-scale games. It offers a unique blend of strategy and tactical flexibility, making it a great choice for those who enjoy skirmish-level combat and the nuances of Japanese folklore-inspired settings. While it may not be the perfect first miniatures game for everyone, it delivers a highly engaging and human experience that fosters interaction and competitive spirit between players.

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