Play Onitama Online — Martial Arts Strategy Board Game

Onitama on Arcadia

Onitama was designed by Shimpei Sato and published in 2014. It quickly earned a Golden Geek Award and became a favourite among abstract strategy fans for its clean, martial arts-themed design.

The game fits the entire decision space into five movement cards shared between both players. That rotating card mechanic means every game is different and every move has consequences two turns ahead.

How to Play

The board is a 5×5 grid. Each player has one master and four students.
Five movement cards are dealt: two per player and one on the side.
On your turn, choose one of your two cards and move any one piece according to that card's pattern.
After moving, place that card on the side and take the side card into your hand.
Capture by moving onto an opponent's piece. Win by capturing their master or occupying their temple.

Key Rules

Two win conditions: Capture the opponent's master (Way of the Stone) or move your master onto the opponent's temple square (Way of the Stream).
Card rotation: After using a card, it goes to the side. You then pick up the current side card.
Movement: Each card shows a specific movement pattern relative to the piece.
Capture: Move onto any opponent piece to remove it from the board.

Winning Strategy

Track card rotation: Know which cards your opponent will receive after your move.
Control the center: Central positions give you the most movement options.
Protect your temple: A single opening on your temple square can end the game instantly.
Use students wisely: Students serve as both attackers and shields for your master.

Tips

Strong play usually comes from tempo, risk control, and converting small advantages.

Play lines that keep your options open.
Protect key assets and avoid overextending.
Force your opponent into predictable responses.

FAQ

How do you win Onitama?

Either capture your opponent's master piece (Way of the Stone), or move your own master onto the opponent's temple square — the centre square of their starting row (Way of the Stream).