Onitama - Rules, History & Strategy Guide

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.

Win by capturing the opponent's master or moving your master onto their temple square.

1. The board is a 5x5 grid. Each player has one master and four students.
2. Five movement cards are dealt: two per player and one on the side.
3. On your turn, choose one of your two cards and move any one piece according to that card's pattern.
4. After moving, place that card on the side and take the side card into your hand.
5. Capture by moving onto an opponent's piece. Win by capturing their master or occupying their temple.

Onitama is about reading the card rotation and controlling space.

• Track which cards your opponent will receive after your move.
• Control the center of the board to keep maximum movement options.
• Protect your temple square — a single opening can end the game instantly.
• Use students as both attackers and shields for your master.

Expansions include Sensei's Path (16 new movement cards) and Way of the Wind (adds a neutral wind spirit piece). Some players also enjoy drafting card sets before the game for added variety.