Ikusa*

Ikusa, formerly known as Shogun and Samurai Swords, is a game set in the tumultuous feudal era of Japan. It represents the last entry in the original Milton Bradley Gamemaster series and focuses on the chaotic social and military upheaval of medieval Japan. Players take on the roles of faction leaders, vying to unite the land under their rule and earn the title of Shogun, the supreme ruler.

Gameplay Overview

• Faction Command: Players control different factions, each with provincial forces and mobile armies led by daimyos.
• Resource Management: Allocate 'koku' for bids and purchases each round, influencing turn order and resources.
• Strategic Battles: Plan and execute attacks against enemy territories, resolving conflicts with dice rolls.
• Victory Conditions: Win by conquering a specific number of territories or eliminating opponents' daimyos.

Special Features

• Historical Theme: The game immerses players in the rich history and strategy of feudal Japan.
• Varied Strategy: Offers different paths to victory, from military conquest to strategic resource management.
• Award-Winning: Recognized for its historical accuracy and excellent graphic presentation.

Background

• Ikusa is the latest iteration of a game that underwent several name changes due to conflicts and rebranding, maintaining its core mechanics and theme through each version.

Conclusion

Ikusa is an excellent choice for fans of historical board games and those who enjoy deep strategic planning and resource management. Its theme, set in medieval Japan, provides a rich backdrop for a game that combines military strategy with careful resource allocation. Whether you're a seasoned strategist or new to historical wargames, Ikusa offers a captivating experience of unifying feudal Japan under your rule.