San, Ni, Ichi (2016) Board Game

San, Ni, Ichi is a card game released in 2016 designed by Mike Sette and illustrated by Ironmark Games. It falls under the categories of Abstract Strategy, Card Game, Fighting, and Number. The game is designed for 3-6 players with a runtime of 10-25 minutes and is suitable for players aged 10 and above. The game features mechanisms such as Campaign/Battle Card Driven, Hand Management, Rock-Paper-Scissors, Simultaneous Action Selection, and Trick-taking.

Game Components of San, Ni, Ichi

Card deck: Featuring cards with elemental themes (fire, water, wood).

Player tokens: Representing each ninja master.

Rulebook: Outlining the game mechanics and setup.

How To Setup San, Ni, Ichi

To set up the game, players start by shuffling the card deck and dealing a certain number of cards to each player. The remaining cards are placed face down in a draw pile. The top card of the draw pile is turned over to create the discard pile, which sets the initial element for the first round.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Trick-taking mechanics: Players take turns playing cards to win tricks based on the element of the lead card.

Elemental matchups: Fire beats wood, wood beats water, and water beats fire.

Objective: To win the most tricks or achieve specific elemental combinations to earn points.

Player Experience

In **San, Ni, Ichi**, players engage in quick and strategic battles, each trying to outmaneuver their opponents using the elemental cards. The game is designed for 3-6 players and lasts between 10-25 minutes, making it a great filler game for any game night. The simple yet engaging mechanics ensure that players of all ages (10+) can enjoy the game.

Pros

Quick gameplay: Perfect for filling gaps between longer games.

Easy to learn: Simple rules make it accessible to new players.

Strategic depth: Elemental matchups add a layer of strategy.

Ninja theme: Engaging and fun theme for fans of ninjas.

Cons

Limited complexity: May not appeal to players seeking deeper gameplay.

Luck factor: Card draw can significantly influence game outcomes.

Short sessions: Some players might find the game too brief.

Personal Thoughts on San, Ni, Ichi

**San, Ni, Ichi** is ideal for those who enjoy quick, light-hearted card games with a touch of strategy. It’s a great addition to any gaming collection, especially for families or casual gaming groups. The game’s ninja theme and easy-to-learn mechanics make it an excellent introduction to trick-taking games for new players. However, seasoned gamers might find it a bit too simplistic for extended play sessions.

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.