Samurai Blades: The Game of Man-to-Man Combat in Feudal Japan (1984) Board Game

Samurai Blades: The Game of Man-to-Man Combat in Feudal Japan is a board game released in in 1984. Designed by Peter O’Toole and Alan Paull, this game allows 2 to 6 players to engage in strategic combat in feudal Japan. The game features beautiful artwork by Peter Dennis and is published by Eurogames. With a runtime of around 240 minutes, Samurai Blades is recommended for players aged 14 and above.

Game Components of Samurai Blades: The Game of Man-to-Man Combat in Feudal Japan

Maps: 2 full-color maps providing 10 different terrains, including The Temple and The Village of the White Dragon.

Playing Pieces: Full-color counters representing Mounted Samurais, Samurais, Ninjas, Ashigarus with bow, yari, or naginata, Monks, Peasants, and miscellaneous units.

Rule Booklet: A booklet containing the game rules.

Play Sheets: 2 sheets for handy reference.

Historical Background Booklet: A guide to the playing pieces and historical context.

Scenario Booklet: Suggestions for 8 different games.

Dice: A 20-sided dice.

How To Setup Samurai Blades: The Game of Man-to-Man Combat in Feudal Japan

To set up Samurai Blades, players first choose a scenario from the scenario booklet. Each scenario specifies the terrain map to use and the units each player will deploy. Players then place their respective units on the chosen map according to the scenario instructions. The historical background booklet and play sheets can be referenced for unit descriptions and quick rules. Once all units are placed, players are ready to begin the game.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Objective: The goal is to defeat the opposing forces in man-to-man combat.

Combat Resolution: Combat is resolved through the use of a 20-sided dice, with each character having different levels of damage and injury represented by multiple pieces.

Hex Board: The game is played on a hex board, which dictates movement and combat spaces.

Unit Abilities: Units such as Samurais, Ninjas, and Monks have unique abilities and strengths.

Player Experience

Samurai Blades offers a gritty and immersive experience of feudal Japanese combat. Players can expect intense, personal, and often bloody battles, with a hint of magic from the inclusion of ninjas and monks with special abilities. While the rules can be skimpy and some scenarios may be less appealing, the game captures the essence of Japanese samurai films and can be a lot of fun for those willing to adapt and create their own rules and scenarios.

Pros

Immersive Theme: Captures the flavor of feudal Japanese combat.

Variety of Units: Multiple unit types with unique abilities.

Quick Gameplay: Games do not take a long time to play.

High Replayability: Encourages creativity in making up rules and scenarios.

Cons

Skimpy Rules: Initial rules can be confusing and lacking in detail.

Variable Scenario Quality: Some scenarios may not be as engaging as others.

Out of Print: The game is no longer being manufactured, making it difficult to obtain.

Personal Thoughts on Samurai Blades: The Game of Man-to-Man Combat in Feudal Japan

Samurai Blades is ideal for those who enjoy tactical combat simulations and are fascinated by feudal Japanese history. It is particularly suited for players who do not mind adapting rules and creating their own scenarios to enhance gameplay. While it may not be the best fit for those seeking a game with extensive, detailed rules or a high level of complexity, it offers a unique and engaging experience for fans of skirmish-level combat games.

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