8.0
rating
Ludopedia
6.5
rating
BGG
Our Verdict
If you enjoy games with a medieval Japanese theme, where negotiation and bluffing go hand-in-hand with warfare, Senji might be your pick! It's a game that challenges you to think on multiple fronts.
Highlights
- Intense diplomacy and negotiation
- Strong medieval Japanese theme
- Tactical dice combat
- Crucial honor management
Keep in mind
- Can have high player interaction
- Moderate learning curve
- Dice luck can be a factor
FOR GENRE FANS
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Senji puts you in the shoes of a clan leader in feudal Japan, during a time of bloody battles and intense negotiation. The goal is clear: become the most honored and respected daimyo, imposing your will upon the other clans. To achieve this, you'll need strategy and a good dose of diplomacy, because glory is earned both on the battlefield and at the negotiation table.
The game unfolds in three main phases. First, the Diplomatic Phase, where conversation is the sharpest weapon: you can exchange military favors, trade hostages (which are worth their weight in gold when things get tough!), and forge alliances. Next is the Order Phase, where you plan your moves in the territories you control, deciding whether to advance troops, recruit more warriors, or invest in production. Finally, the Action Phase, the moment of truth. The player with the most honor (which you earn in combat!) has the privilege of deciding the order in which battles and actions will take place. And rest assured, combat is frequent! Resolution involves rolling custom dice, modified by diplomatic bonuses. Whoever wins the battle gains honor, and the more blood spilled, the greater the glory. It's a game that demands bluffing, hand management, negotiation, and a keen eye on the board to secure your place as the supreme leader.
The game unfolds in three main phases. First, the Diplomatic Phase, where conversation is the sharpest weapon: you can exchange military favors, trade hostages (which are worth their weight in gold when things get tough!), and forge alliances. Next is the Order Phase, where you plan your moves in the territories you control, deciding whether to advance troops, recruit more warriors, or invest in production. Finally, the Action Phase, the moment of truth. The player with the most honor (which you earn in combat!) has the privilege of deciding the order in which battles and actions will take place. And rest assured, combat is frequent! Resolution involves rolling custom dice, modified by diplomatic bonuses. Whoever wins the battle gains honor, and the more blood spilled, the greater the glory. It's a game that demands bluffing, hand management, negotiation, and a keen eye on the board to secure your place as the supreme leader.
GALLERY
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Mechanics
Categories
Families
Publisher
asmodee
Designer
Bruno Cathala, Serge Laget
Artist
Bertrand Benoit
How many players does Senji support and how long does a game typically last?
Senji is designed for 3 to 6 players, and a typical game session lasts around 90 minutes.
What is the complexity level of Senji?
With a medium weight of 2.96/5 on BGG, Senji is considered a game for those with some experience in more strategic board games, but it's not overly complex.
Does the game rely heavily on luck?
Luck plays a role primarily in the dice rolls for combat, but the diplomatic, negotiation, and order planning phases allow players to mitigate randomness and use strategy to turn the tide.
What are the main components of the game?
You'll find a board representing feudal Japan, order markers, dice with icons, cards, and pieces to represent your clans and armies.
Is Senji a good game for players who enjoy interacting with others?
Absolutely! The diplomatic phase and battles encourage a lot of interaction, negotiation, and even a bit of backstabbing among players.
What is the main objective in Senji?
The goal is to accumulate the most honor to become the supreme daimyo, by controlling territories and overcoming opponents in battles and political maneuvers.