Kenjin (2015) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Kenjin is a strategic card game designed by Nicolas Sato and published by IELLO in in 2015. The game combines elements of bluffing, deduction, and area majority/influence mechanics to create a unique gameplay experience. With stunning artwork by Biboun, Kenjin has garnered attention from gamers looking for a challenging and engaging tabletop experience.

Game Components of Kenjin

84 Cards

1 Starting Player Token

4 Player Aid Cards

Rulebook

How To Setup Kenjin

Shuffle the deck of cards.

Deal each player a hand of 7 cards.

Place the starting player token in the center of the table.

Follow the setup instructions for the specific game mode being played.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

In Kenjin, players take on the role of feuding clans vying for control of ancient Japan. Through strategic card play, bluffing, and deduction, players must outmaneuver their opponents to gain control of key territories. The game objective is to have the most influence in the nine provinces at the end of the game.

Player Experience

Pros:

Engaging gameplay that combines strategy and bluffing.

Beautiful artwork that enhances the theme of feudal Japan.

Quick gameplay with a runtime of around 30 minutes.

Cons:

Can be overwhelming for new players due to the various mechanics at play.

Limited player interaction outside of strategic card play.

Personal Thoughts on Kenjin

Kenjin is a well-designed game that offers a unique blend of mechanics for players looking for a strategic challenge. The game’s build quality is solid, with durable cards and components that hold up well to repeated plays. While the game may not appeal to everyone, those who enjoy bluffing and deduction games will find Kenjin to be a worthwhile addition to their collection.

In terms of pricing and availability, Kenjin is reasonably priced for the value it offers in terms of gameplay and components. Both new and used copies can be found online, making it accessible to a wide range of players. Alternatives to Kenjin include similar bluffing and deduction games like Sheriff of Nottingham and Coup, which may appeal to players interested in exploring similar game mechanics.

Overall, Kenjin is worth your time if you enjoy strategic card games with elements of bluffing and deduction. It is best suited for players who enjoy a challenge and are willing to invest the time to learn the game’s nuances. However, those who prefer more social interaction in their games may find Kenjin lacking in that aspect and may want to skip it in favor of other options.

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