Shogun Big Box

Evrikus, Queen Games · Board game · 2015
8.3 Ludopedia 8.0 BGG 3–5 · best 5 120–150 min Weight 3.3/5
Buy · from US$ 62.26
8.3 rating Ludopedia
8.0 rating BGG
Our Verdict
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Strategists who love a historical twist will enjoy Shogun Big Box; territorial control plus economy in a frenetic pace.

Highlights
  • Strategic territorial control
  • Dynamically evolving resource economy
  • Varied gameplay modes
  • High‑quality components
Keep in mind
  • Medium‑to‑high complexity
  • Attention to action queue needed
  • Long playtime
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About the game

What you do in a play session

Shogun Big Box is the ultimate collection for fans of strategy, economics, and the Sengoku war atmosphere. The set includes the base game Shogun, the Tenno's Court expansion, and three extra modules – Samurai, Military Leaders, and Chambers – each adding layers of depth and variability. Samurai provides resource bonuses that accumulate as you control more regions; Military Leaders bring figures that reduce construction costs and generate resources, requiring careful movement across the board; Chambers turns territorial control into a race for power positions, where dominating more regions earns influence lines on the office tableau. Action Queue keeps everyone in sync, while simultaneous action selection ensures no one has to wait, creating tension. The Cube Tower symbolizes progress in each region, and the auction lets players buy territories or advantages, adding a direct competitive layer. With 3 to 5 players, 120 to 150 minutes, and a medium to high complexity, Shogun Big Box is perfect for those who love deep strategic decisions, constant interaction, and a rich historical setting.

In English, Ludopedia highlights that the game fits into War Game categories and Economy/Production themes, as well as Oriental Culture. But the true essence lies in the mechanics and replayability the set offers.

What makes Shogun Big Box special? It’s the blend of territorial control, resource economics, and the need to plan actions with the Action Queue and variable phase order. If you’ve played Shogun or other Big Box series games, you’ll feel right at home. If not, the learning curve is friendly, but the game rewards those who invest time in understanding its nuances.

Summary: Shogun Big Box is a complete strategic experience for 3‑5 players, 120‑150 minutes, with a medium to high complexity. Ideal for those who enjoy building empires, negotiating, and using war tactics in a fascinating historical setting.

Best player count

BGG community vote

3–5 players
3 REC
4 BEST
5 BEST

Where to Buy

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Game details

Mechanics, categories, families and credits

Families

Country: Japan History: Sengoku Period Series: Big Box (Queen) Versions & Editions: Big Box Versions of Individual Games
Publisher Evrikus, Queen Games
Designer Dirk Henn
Artist Marko Fiedler, Michael Menzel

Community

Data from BoardGameGeek

2,419owners
313wishlist
73want to play

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers before you buy

6 questions
How long does a typical Shogun Big Box game last?
On average, a game runs between 120 and 150 minutes, though shorter games can happen if players opt for more aggressive strategies.
How many players can join?
The game supports 3 to 5 players, offering both larger group dynamics and tighter, more focused play.
What’s the complexity level?
Shogun Big Box is rated medium to high in complexity; newcomers may need some time to learn, but the learning curve is manageable.
What are the main components?
The set includes the base board, territory control pieces, cube tower, action markers, bonus cards, military leader tokens, and the office tableau.
Is it suitable for people unfamiliar with Japanese history?
Absolutely! While the setting is historical, the mechanics are self‑contained and can be enjoyed by players with no background in Japanese history.
What’s the unique feature of the Samurai module?
It adds a progression of bonuses that reward territorial control, letting players collect increasingly valuable resources each round.

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