# Let's Catch the Lion!

## General Info
- **Year Published**: 2008
- **BGG Rating**: 6.6
- **BGG Rank**: #5151
- **Players**: 2 (Best with: 2)
- **Duration**: 15 min
- **Weight**: 1.71 / 5
- **Designers**: Madoka Kitao
- **Artists**: Maciej Szymanowicz, Maiko Fujita, Silvia Romeral Andrés
- **Publishers**: AURUM, Inc., Benesse, Egmont Polska, EiSystem, Gentosha Education, Ginbis, Japon Brand, LPSA, Magpie (Korean Co), MARUKAWA CONFECTIONERY CO., LTD., MINDOK, Nekomado, nestorgames, pieco design, Swan Panasia Co., Ltd., Wanted Games
- **Categories**: Abstract Strategy, Animals, Children's Game, Educational
- **Mechanics**: Grid Movement, Square Grid

## Verdict
Chess or abstract game fans will adore this animal-themed mini-Shogi. Pure strategy in 15 minutes!Ultra portable and fastGreat for teaching kids strategySimple yet deep rulesTiny board may feel crampedOnly for 2 playersRECOMMENDED

## Description
Let's Catch the Lion! (a.k.a. Dōbutsu Shōgi, meaning 'animal shogi') is a super simplified version of Shogi, Japanese chess. Each player controls just four pieces — a chick, giraffe, elephant, and the lion — aiming to either capture the opponent's lion or move their own lion to the opposite side of the tiny 3x4 board. Designed to introduce kids to Shogi, it’s also a blast for adults as a quick 15-minute brain teaser. Pieces mimic Western chess but with limits: the giraffe moves like a rook (one square at a time), the elephant like a bishop (also one step), and the chick advances like a pawn. The lion? It’s the kingpin and can even win by reaching the far side — if it avoids check! Plus, a cool twist: captured pieces can be dropped back into play (like traditional Shogi), but here, you can even stack two chicks in a column. Perfect for a portable, quirky, and fast-paced strategy fix.

## FAQ
### What’s the minimum recommended age?
5+, but younger kids might need help with piece movements.

### Can I play it online?
Yep! It’s on Board Game Arena and Pychess.

### How long does a game last?
Around 15 minutes — perfect for a quick break.

### Do I need to know Shogi to enjoy it?
Nope! Rules are dead simple, and it teaches the basics.

### Does it come with a carrying pouch?
Yes, the original includes a handy zippered pouch.