Kamisado: Mastering the Game Strategies, Rules, and Winning Instructions

Introduction

Kamisado is a board game that combines elements of strategy, skill, and a dash of luck. Originating from Japan, the game has gained popularity worldwide due to its gameplay and the mental challenge it offers.

I find it strikes a good balance between complexity and accessibility. Complex enough to keep you thinking into your fiftieth game, but not so bad as to melt your brain.

The game is played on an 8×8 multicolored board, with each player having eight different colored towers. The objective of the game is to be the first player to move one of their towers to the opponent’s home row. The game requires no dice or cards, making it a game of pure strategy and skill.

If you like the deterministic play of Kamisado, I recommend checking out similar games like Blokus or those in the GIPF (YINSH, ZÈRTZ) series, which I’ve also written guides on.

Rules for playing Kamisado

The official rules of Kamisado are straightforward and easy to understand. Here are the basic rules:

1. Each player starts with eight towers, each of a different color, placed on their home row.
2. The player with the black towers makes the first move.
3. The color of the square that the moved tower lands on determines which tower the opponent must move next.
4. The game continues in this way, with each player’s move determining the next tower their opponent must move.
5. The game ends when a player moves a tower to their opponent’s home row.

While these are the official rules, players can also create their own ‘house rules’ to add variety to the game. For example, some players might agree to play multiple rounds and keep score, with the player who wins the most rounds being declared the overall winner.

Movement Rules

As I briefly explained above, when a player moves a tower, the color of the square that the moved tower lands on determines which tower the opponent must move next. Here’s how it works in more detail:

1. Color Matching: Each tower in Kamisado is associated with a color. The game board consists of squares of different colors arranged in a pattern. When a player moves their tower to a square, the color of that square dictates which tower the opponent must move on their turn (e.g. Blue Player 1 moves their Blue tower to a Red square, Red Player 2 must then move one of their Red towers). In a game of 3+ players, when a player moves their tower to a square, the color of that square determines which player must move next.
2. Forced Tower Movement: The opponent must move the tower corresponding to the color of the square where the player’s tower landed. This adds a strategic layer to the game, as players must consider not only their own moves but also how they can force their opponent into unfavorable positions.
3. Limiting Options: Since players are constrained by the color of the square their opponent’s tower lands on, it limits their options and can sometimes force them into making moves that benefit the other player. This creates tension and requires players to think several moves ahead to anticipate their opponent’s actions.
4. Strategic Planning: Players must carefully plan their moves to both advance their own position and restrict their opponent’s options. This involves analyzing the board layout, predicting possible moves, and considering how each move will affect the subsequent turns.

Overall, the color-based tower movement mechanic in Kamisado adds depth and complexity to the game, requiring players to adapt their strategies based on the changing board state and the actions of their opponent.

How do you play Kamisado

Setup

At the start of the game, each player places their eight towers on their home row, with each tower matching the color of the square it is placed on. The player with the black towers makes the first move.

Gameplay

Players take turns moving their towers. The color of the square that the moved tower lands on determines which tower the opponent must move next. For example, if a player moves a tower and it lands on a red square, their opponent must move their red tower on their next turn.

End of the Game

The game ends when a player moves a tower to their opponent’s home row. That player is declared the winner.

How to Win at Kamisado

Winning at Kamisado requires strategic thinking and careful planning. Here are some strategies that can help you win:

1. Plan your moves in advance: Try to anticipate your opponent’s moves and plan your own moves accordingly. This can help you control the flow of the game and keep your opponent on the defensive.
2. Use your towers wisely: Each tower can only be moved when its color is called. Therefore, it’s important to use your towers wisely and not leave any of them stranded.
3. Keep your opponent guessing: Try to keep your opponent guessing by making unexpected moves. This can throw off their strategy and give you an advantage.

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you play Kamisado, the better you’ll become at it.

Best Strategies for playing Kamisado game

While there are many strategies for playing Kamisado, here are some of the best ones:

1. Control the center: Try to control the center of the board. This can give you more options for your moves and make it harder for your opponent to reach your home row.
2. Block your opponent: If possible, try to block your opponent’s towers. This can limit their options and give you an advantage.
3. Be flexible: Don’t stick to one strategy. Be flexible and adapt your strategy based on the situation on the board.

Remember, the key to winning at Kamisado is to think strategically and plan your moves carefully.

Scenarios for Kamisado

There are many different scenarios that can occur during a game of Kamisado. Here are some common ones and how to handle them:

1. You’re on the defensive: If your opponent is controlling the game and you’re on the defensive, try to change the flow of the game by making unexpected moves. This can throw off your opponent’s strategy and give you a chance to regain control.
2. Your opponent is blocking you: If your opponent is blocking your towers, try to find a way around them. You can also try to force them to move their blocking tower by landing on a square of its color.
3. You’re close to winning: If you’re close to winning, stay focused and don’t get overconfident. Make sure to think through your moves carefully to avoid making a mistake that could cost you the game.

Remember, every game of Kamisado is unique, and the best strategy is to adapt to the situation on the board.

Frequently Asked Questions about playing Kamisado game

1. What happens if a player cannot move a tower? If a player cannot move a tower because all of their towers of that color are blocked, they lose the game.
2. Can a tower move backwards? Yes, a tower can move backwards, forwards, or sideways. However, it cannot jump over other towers.
3. Can a player pass their turn? No, a player cannot pass their turn. They must move a tower if they can.
4. What happens if the game is a draw? In the rare event that the game is a draw, the player who made the last move is declared the winner.
5. How long does a game of Kamisado typically last? A game of Kamisado typically lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, but it can vary depending on the players’ skill levels.

External Links

Kamisado Review [Video]

Play Kamisado Online (free, no registration)