Bushido: Risen Sun (2019) Board Game

Bushido: Risen Sun is a miniatures wargame set in a fantasy feudal Japan. It was released in 2019 as a standalone expansion to the original Bushido game. Players take on the roles of skilled warriors and engage in tactical combat on the tabletop battlefield.

Game Components of Bushido: Risen Sun

Rule Book: Available for free download or purchase at £18 (~$23.4).

Miniatures: High-quality miniatures for various factions, including Ito Clan, Prefecture of Ryu, Jung Pirates, Savage Wave, and Minimoto Clan.

Card Replacement Decks: Contain all Profile and Special cards for each faction, available at £12.95 (~$16.8) each.

Tokens and Boards: High-quality punch board tokens compatible with the Risen Sun ruleset.

Two-Player Starter Set: Includes models, tokens, and a rulebook, providing a complete introduction to the game.

How To Setup Bushido: Risen Sun

Setting up Bushido: Risen Sun involves preparing the game area with the chosen scenario, placing models and tokens, and distributing cards. Players start by selecting their faction and scenario type (zone control, objectives, or Very Important Model). Each player sets up their models according to the scenario rules and ensures they have the necessary cards and tokens. The game includes a detailed setup process outlined in the rulebook and supported by resources like the Two-Player Starter Set.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Scenario Focus: Games are centered around scenarios, including zone control, objectives, and Very Important Model (VIM).

Dice Rolling: Combat involves simultaneous rolling of dice, with players dividing dice into attack and defense pools. The highest dice for each type are used, with additional dice adding +1 as long as they are not 1.

Challenge and Opposed Tests: Simplified mechanics with only two types of tests: Challenge Tests and Opposed Tests.

Combat Mechanics: Fast-paced and cinematic, with counterattacking possible during the opponent’s turn. Turns are typically 2-3 minutes long.

Game Objective: Win by gaining more Victory Points than the opponent through scenario completion, not necessarily by wiping out the opponent’s models.

Player Experience

Bushido: Risen Sun offers a dynamic and engaging experience with fast-paced combat and strategic scenario play. The game is designed to keep players involved throughout, with counterattacking mechanics ensuring no player feels inactive during their opponent’s turn. Each faction has a unique play style, requiring players to adapt strategies when facing different opponents. The game’s balance is maintained through scenario-focused gameplay, making every faction viable despite their strengths and weaknesses.

Pros

Low Entry Cost: One of the lowest entry costs in tabletop gaming, making it accessible to new players.

High-Quality Miniatures: continuous improvement in miniature quality.

Engaging Combat: Fast-paced and cinematic combat mechanics.

Deep Strategy: Multiple factions with unique abilities and play styles.

Strong Community: Active community with resources like Facebook, Discord, and podcasts.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Numerous traits, abilities, and special attacks/defenses can be overwhelming for new players.

Complex Setup: Detailed setup process may require some time to learn and master.

Personal Thoughts on Bushido: Risen Sun

Bushido: Risen Sun is ideal for players looking for a skirmish-level game with deep strategy and engaging combat mechanics. It is particularly suited for those interested in Eastern mythos and fantasy settings. The game’s low entry cost and high-quality components make it an attractive option for both new and experienced tabletop gamers. While it may have a steep learning curve, the rewarding gameplay and active community support make it a worthwhile investment for those willing to dive in.

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