Small Samurai Empires

Small Samurai Empires is a game that truly surprised me. I was looking for something fast-paced and strategic, and this fit the bill perfectly. The action-programming mechanic, where you place order tokens facedown and then reveal them to execute your actions, was a fresh take on area control that kept the tension high. It feels like a constant battle for supremacy, with each round offering new opportunities to outmaneuver your opponents.

I particularly enjoyed the balance between strategic planning and tactical execution. You have to carefully consider your order tokens and the available slots, as well as how your opponents might react. The constant interplay of action and reaction kept me on my toes. While the rules are simple to grasp, there's a surprising depth of strategy that emerges as you learn the game.

One of the things I appreciated was the focus on the "small" in "Small Samurai Empires". It's not about overwhelming your opponent with brute force; it's about making strategic decisions, managing resources, and building your power over time. This creates a more nuanced and engaging experience, and the game's shorter playtime allows for multiple rounds without feeling repetitive.

If you're looking for a fun, engaging, and strategic game that's easy to learn but difficult to master, Small Samurai Empires is highly recommended. I can't wait to play it again!