Ronin: Skirmish Wargames in the Age of the Samurai (2013) Board Game

Ronin: Skirmish Wargames in the Age of the Samurai is a tabletop miniatures game that allows players to recreate epic battles from feudal Japan. Released in 2013, the game is designed by José Daniel Cabrera Peña and published by Osprey Publishing. With a focus on strategy and tactics, players command small warbands of samurai warriors in skirmishes that capture the essence of samurai combat.

Game Components of Ronin: Skirmish Wargames in the Age of the Samurai

Rulebook: A 64-page guide with 31 color and 4 black-and-white illustrations.

Miniatures: Players use small warbands of 4 to 20 models, which can be generic samurai miniatures or specific figures from manufacturers like Perry Miniatures, Wargames Factory, and Zvezda.

Dice: The game employs a d6 system for resolving combat and other actions.

Terrain and Scenarios: Includes rules for random terrain placement and various weather conditions, along with specific scenarios such as defending a village, capturing an objective, and tournaments.

Character Sheets and Bonus Materials: Available for download, including character sheets, bonus adventures, and errata.

How To Setup Ronin: Skirmish Wargames in the Age of the Samurai

To set up the game, players design their warbands using a points system, assigning each model weapons, armor, and martial skills. The game starts with a Priority Phase, where players determine who goes first and perform morale checks. The setup involves placing terrain randomly and determining the weather and time of day, which can affect gameplay.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Combat Pool System: Players use a dice pool to manage attacks and defenses, allowing for strategic decisions about resource allocation.

Priority and Morale: Each turn begins with a Priority Phase to determine initiative and check morale, which can affect the performance of the warband.

Movement and Actions: Players alternate movement and actions, including shooting, reloading, picking up objects, and performing special actions.

Combat Resolution: Combat is resolved using the dice pool system, with options to enhance attacks and defenses.

Scenarios and Missions: The game includes various scenarios such as duels, tournaments, defending a village, and assassinations.

Player Experience

Playing **Ronin** offers a deeply tactical and immersive experience, where players must make strategic decisions about resource management and combat tactics. The game’s focus on small-scale engagements and the historical accuracy of the setting add to its appeal. Players can enjoy a variety of scenarios, from straightforward battles to more complex missions like defending a village or conducting an assassination.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: The game is set in a well-researched historical context, making it appealing to history enthusiasts.

Tactical Depth: The combat pool system and morale mechanics add a layer of strategy and realism.

Versatility: The game can be adapted to other historical periods and even fantasy settings.

Scalability: Suitable for small warbands, making it easy to set up and play.

Engaging Scenarios: Includes a variety of missions and scenarios to keep gameplay fresh.

Cons

Limited Scale: The game is designed for small warbands, which might not appeal to players looking for larger battles.

Additional Complexity: The combat pool and morale systems, while adding depth, can also increase complexity for new players.

Optional Rules: Some players might find the optional rules, such as fatigue counters, too cumbersome.

Personal Thoughts on Ronin: Skirmish Wargames in the Age of the Samurai

**Ronin** is ideal for players who enjoy tactical skirmish games and are interested in the historical context of feudal Japan. The game’s adaptability to other periods and settings makes it a versatile addition to any wargamer’s collection. It is particularly suited for those who appreciate the strategic nuances of small-scale battles and the martial culture of the samurai era. However, it may not be the best fit for players seeking large-scale battles or those who prefer simpler, more straightforward rulesets.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.