Nippon Game Rules

Welcome to the world of Nippon, where strategy and cunning are key to becoming the ultimate samurai. In this exciting game, you’ll dive into the rich and vibrant world of Feudal Japan, commanding powerful armies, building magnificent castles, and forging alliances to claim victory. The rules may seem daunting at first, but fear not! I’m here to guide you through the basics and help you master the art of Nippon.

Objective: The goal of Nippon is simple – to become the most powerful Daimyo, or feudal lord, in all of Japan. To achieve this, you must earn Victory Points by expanding your influence, constructing impressive structures, and winning battles against your opponents. The player with the most Victory Points at the end of the game is declared the winner. Gameplay: The game is played over several rounds, each consisting of five phases: Action Phase, Income Phase, Check Investment Value Phase, Cleanup Phase, and Check for Game End Phase. During the Action Phase, you’ll have the opportunity to perform various actions, such as recruiting samurai, developing provinces, trading with foreign countries, or engaging in warfare. Each action requires careful consideration and planning, as they can have far-reaching consequences. Samurai: In Nippon, samurai are the backbone of your army. They can be recruited during the Action Phase and deployed to conquer new territories or defend your domain. Each samurai has unique abilities and attributes that can turn the tide of battle in your favor. It’s important to train and nurture your samurai, ensuring they reach their full potential and become formidable warriors. Provinces and Castles: As a Daimyo, you’ll be responsible for expanding your domain by developing provinces and constructing castles. Provinces provide important resources, such as rice, gold, or iron, which are essential for your economy. Castles, on the other hand, serve as both defensive fortifications and symbols of power. Building grand castles not only deters potential invaders but also earns you Victory Points. Diplomacy: While Nippon is a game of strategy and warfare, it’s also a game of diplomacy. Forming alliances with other players can greatly enhance your chances of success. By cooperating with your rivals, you can gain access to vital resources, share military intelligence, or launch joint attacks against common foes. However, be wary of treachery, as alliances can be fragile and deceitful. Trust your instincts and choose your allies wisely. Victory Points: Victory Points are the currency of success in Nippon. They are earned by accomplishing various objectives throughout the game, such as constructing castles, expanding your influence, or winning battles. Victory Points not only determine the winner at the end of the game but also act as a measure of your progress. Keep a close eye on your opponents’ Victory Points to gauge their power and plan your strategies accordingly.

In conclusion, Nippon is a game that combines strategy, diplomacy, and warfare into an immersive and thrilling experience. It invites you to forge your own path to victory in the feudal world of ancient Japan. So gather your samurai, command your armies, and embark on a quest to become the greatest Daimyo in Nippon. Are you ready to seize the opportunity? The fate of Japan lies in your hands.

Hey there! Before we kick off the first game, let’s make sure there are no tiles left in the frames, okay?

• 1 Game Board
• 4 Player Boards
• 48 workers (8 each in 6 colors)
• 4 Tracking discs (1 each in the 4 player colors)
• Approx. 90 black cubes
• 1 Scoring Marker (white cylinder)
• 24 Train tiles (6 in each of the 4 player colors)
• 24 Ship tiles (6 in each of the 4 player colors)
• 40 Influence tiles (10 in each of the 4 player colors)
• 24 Factory tiles
• 24 Machinery tiles
• 32 Contract tiles
• 16 Blueprint tiles (with the values 1 or 2)
• 9 City tiles
• 24 Reward tiles (with a bonus on the front and a 2x – 5x VP Multiplier on the back)
• 4 VP Multiplier tiles (with 2x VP on both sides)
• 1 cloth bag
• Yen notes

Setup

When you open the box of this game, you’ll find the following components:

– 1 Game Board

– 4 Player Boards

– 48 workers, divided into 6 different colors, with 8 workers in each color

– 4 Tracking discs, one in each of the 4 player colors

– Approximately 90 black cubes

– 1 Scoring Marker, which is represented by a white cylinder

– 24 Train tiles, with 6 tiles in each of the 4 player colors

– 24 Ship tiles, again with 6 tiles in each of the 4 player colors

– 40 Influence tiles, 10 for each player color

– 24 Factory tiles

– 24 Machinery tiles

– 32 Contract tiles

– 16 Blueprint tiles, either with the value 1 or 2

– 9 City tiles

– 24 Reward tiles, which have a bonus on the front and a 2x – 5x VP Multiplier on the back

– 4 VP Multiplier tiles, with a 2x VP on both sides

– 1 cloth bag

– Yen notes

Now that you know what to expect in the box, let’s move on to the setup of the game.

Let’s go over all the rules for a game with four players. But if you’re playing with fewer than four, just put any leftover pieces back in the box.

1. The Game Board

First, place the Game Board on the table. It’s divided into different areas.

2. Player’s Supply

Now, each player picks a color – yellow, red, purple, or blue – and puts the following things in front of them:

There are 8 different Contracts. You take 1 of each and put them face up in front of you.

The Victory Points Track

We randomly determine who goes first. We’ll take turns in clockwise order, starting with the 1st Player. Each of us will place our colored disc on the Victory Points (VP) Track: the 1st Player goes on the 10, the 2nd Player goes on the 11, the 3rd Player goes on the 12, and the 4th Player goes on the 13.

As we play the game, every time we earn Victory Points, we move our disc forward. If we lose Victory Points, our disc moves backward.

4. Scoring Marker

Put the Scoring Marker in the first slot on the Scoring track.

5. Get Ready to Rule!

Hey there! Ready to jump into the exciting world of Zaibatsu? Great! Let’s get you set up with your own Player Board. This is where you’ll strategize and make all your moves. Choose the Player Board with your favorite color symbol and place it right in front of you.

Now, let’s take a closer look at your board together:

• First up, we have the Budget area. You start with 12,000 Yen and 2 black cubes here. These cubes represent Coal, an important resource in the game.
• In the Ships area, arrange 6 Ship tiles of your color in a neat row with their “2VP” side facing up. These tiles will come in handy during the game.
• Next, we move to the Train area. Just like the Ships area, you’ll place 6 Train tiles of your color next to each other. Make sure the “+2” side is facing up. These tiles will give you a nice boost!
• Don’t forget about the tracks! Put one black cube on the “2” of the Coal track, another on the “12” of the Money track, and one more on the “1” of the Knowledge track. These tracks will help you keep track of your progress.

Remember, the black cubes play different roles depending on where they’re placed. On the Budget area, they represent Coal. Keep that in mind as you plan your moves.

That’s it! You’re all set to start building your Zaibatsu empire. Good luck and have fun!

Note: Those black cubes you see on the tracks of a Player Board (Coal, Money, or Knowledge) are there to show you the Level markers.

6. VP Tiles

The Power of Tiles

I think it’s fascinating how something as simple as tiles can have such a big impact on a space. Tiles can completely transform a room, giving it a whole new look and feel. It’s amazing how something so small and unassuming can make such a dramatic difference.

Tiles come in all sorts of colors, patterns, and designs, so you have a lot of options to choose from. Whether you want to create a bold statement or go for a more subtle look, there’s a tile out there for you. And the great thing is that you can mix and match different tiles to create your own unique style.

The Practical Side of Tiles

Not only do tiles look great, but they’re also incredibly practical. They’re easy to clean and maintain, making them perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. They’re also very durable and long-lasting, so you won’t have to worry about them getting damaged or worn out.

But it’s not just about practicality – tiles can also be a lot of fun. You can get creative with how you lay them out and create interesting patterns and designs. You can even use different textures and finishes to add some depth and dimension to your space.

Choosing the Right Tiles

When it comes to choosing the right tiles for your space, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the style and feel you want to create. Do you want a sleek and modern look, or something more rustic and traditional? Once you have an idea of the style you’re going for, you can start looking for tiles that fit that aesthetic.

Next, think about the size and shape of the tiles. Larger tiles can make a space feel more open and spacious, while smaller tiles can add texture and detail. You should also consider the color and pattern of the tiles. Lighter colors can make a small space feel bigger, while darker colors can add drama and sophistication.

The Final Touch

Once you’ve chosen your tiles and had them installed, it’s time to add the finishing touches. You can complement your tiles with coordinating paint colors, furniture, and accessories. You can also add some greenery with potted plants or fresh flowers to bring some natural beauty into your space.

So, whether you’re renovating your bathroom or updating your kitchen, don’t underestimate the power of tiles. They have the ability to completely transform a space, making it feel brand new and exciting. So go ahead, get creative, and have fun with your tile choices!

I’m going to explain how to set up the game board for VP Multiplier. First, put the four 2x VP Multiplier tiles next to the Game Board.

Step 7: Factory Tiles

Now let’s sort the Factory tiles. You need to organize them according to the type of Good they produce. You can find this information in the bottom right corner of each Factory tile.

Place the Factory tiles with the Produced Good-Blueprint side face up. Look for the icon in the top left corner with a value of 2, 4, or 6. Put these tiles next to the Game Board.

There are a total of 6 different Goods in the game. Make sure to keep them in mind as you continue playing.

8. Reward Tiles

Let’s now talk about the reward tiles. They’re an important part of the game and can greatly influence your score. So, let me break it down for you.

The reward tiles come in different variations. They have a VP multiplier on their back, ranging from 2 to 5. This multiplier will determine how many victory points you’ll receive when you claim a reward tile.

Additionally, each reward tile has a bonus on the front. There are three types of bonuses: 2 Blueprints, 2 Coal, or 5,000 Yen. These bonuses can provide you with valuable resources or currency that you can use to further your strategy and improve your chances of winning.

Now, let’s talk about how these reward tiles are sorted. First, we’ll sort them based on their VP multiplier. The higher the multiplier, the more valuable the reward tile. Then, within each multiplier group, we’ll further sort them based on the type of bonus they offer.

By organizing the reward tiles in this way, we end up with 12 stacks of reward tiles in total. Each stack represents a different combination of VP multiplier and bonus. This adds an element of strategy to the game as you’ll need to decide which stack to take from in order to maximize your score and gain the resources you need.

So, when it comes to reward tiles, keep in mind the VP multiplier and the bonus on the front. They can make a big difference in your overall score and help you achieve victory.

Alright, let’s get started. Here’s what you need to do:

Take the stacks and place them on the Reward slots of the Game Board. Make sure the bonus side is facing up. Start with the stacks that have 2VP on the back, and put them in the leftmost column. Then, move on to the stacks with 3VP on the back, and place them in the next column. Keep going like this, with each stack in a different column based on their corresponding VP value on the back.

There you go! You’ve got everything in its rightful place. Now you can dive into the game and start having fun!

9. The Magic of Urban Tiles

Have you ever stopped to appreciate the beauty of city tiles? I have, and let me tell you, they’re truly something special. These intricate pieces of art can be found on sidewalks and buildings all around town, adding a touch of elegance to our urban landscapes.

But what is it about city tiles that make them so captivating? Well, for starters, their intricate designs can transport you to another time and place. As you stroll through the streets, the patterns and colors beneath your feet can tell stories of distant lands or historical events. It’s like walking through a living history book, right there on the pavement.

City tiles also have an incredible ability to elevate our mood. Just imagine walking down a gray, monotonous sidewalk, feeling a bit down and uninspired. But then, you suddenly stumble upon a vibrant, mosaic tile path. The colors and patterns instantly lift your spirits, injecting a burst of energy into your day. It’s as if the tiles themselves are whispering, “Hey, look at me! Life is beautiful and full of possibilities!”

But city tiles are not only about aesthetics and mood enhancement. They also play a practical role in our urban environment. For example, these tiles provide better traction and grip, making our sidewalks safer to walk on, even during wet or icy conditions. They are more than just pretty decorations – they serve a purpose, too.

So, next time you’re taking a leisurely stroll through your city, I encourage you to pay attention to the marvelous tiles beneath your feet. Take a moment to appreciate their beauty, absorb their energy, and let them transport you to another world. It’s these little details that add depth and magic to our urban lives. Enjoy the journey!

When I look at the map of Japan, I can see that it’s split into 4 Regions. It’s pretty interesting to me how each Region has 2 City slots.

Now, let’s talk about the City tiles. To start the game, we randomly put 1 City tile face up on each City slot of the Game Board. It’s important to mix things up and make it unpredictable, so we also rotate the tiles in different directions (check out the picture below to see what I mean!). But here’s the thing: there’s always one tile left over, and we don’t use it in this game. Instead, it goes back in the box where it came from.

Let’s talk about the Workers now.

So, we’ve got 48 Workers to play with. All of them go into a cloth bag. It’s like a bag of opportunities!

Note: The colors of the Workers are not related to the player colors nor to the Factory colors.

11. Action Slots and Worker Rows

I’ll tell you something interesting – the colors of the workers have nothing to do with the colors of the players or the factory. Isn’t that curious?

Now, let’s talk about action slots and worker rows. Here’s how it works: we’re going to randomly draw workers from a bag and place three of them on each action slot on the game board. Just like in the picture below. Easy, right?

Oh, and don’t forget about the worker rows! We’re going to do the same thing with them. So, each worker row on the game board will also have three workers.

12. Common Supply

Alright, now let’s move on to the common supply. This is where things get interesting. The common supply is like a treasure chest – it’s filled with all sorts of goodies that you can use in the game.

To set it up, you’ll need to shuffle the corresponding cards and place them face up next to the game board. These cards will be available to all players throughout the game, so choose wisely and make the most of them!

That’s it for now. I hope you’re ready to dive into the game and have some fun. Get ready to strategize, make smart moves, and come out on top! Let’s do this!

So here’s what you need to do: put all those Machinery tiles, Blueprint tiles, black cubes, and Yen notes right next to the Game Board. It’s all gonna be a common supply, y’know?

Now, pay attention: whenever the rules say you gotta pay, that means you gotta cough up some Yen. Just grab those notes from your Budget area on your Player Board, and put ’em back in the common supply. Simple as that.

Oh, and when you get some Yen or Coal, just snatch ’em from the common supply and place ’em in your Budget area. Easy peasy.

Now, here’s a bit of a twist: when you receive or discard Blueprints, it’s not about the actual number of tiles, but rather their value. Ya follow? Let me break it down for ya: let’s say you get 2 Blueprints. Instead of grabbing two Blueprint tiles valued at 1, you can go for one tile valued at 2. Got it? Good.

Now keep this in mind: there’s no limit to the items in the common supply. But hey, if somehow we run out of something, we’ll figure it out. We’ll find a way to keep track of ’em. No worries.

Alright, let’s get this game started!

When it’s my turn to play, I start by taking 1 Worker from the Game Board and performing the corresponding action. I have two choices:

1. Take 1 Worker, from the Game Board and perform the corresponding action (see below), OR
2. Consolidate.

If I want to, I can also discard 3 Blueprints at any point during my turn to move one of my level markers up 1 step on the Money track, Coal track, or Knowledge track. I can do this multiple times, as long as I discard 3 Blueprints each time.

Throughout the game, there will be 3 Scorings. Once we reach the 3rd Scoring, the game is over, and it’s time to calculate our final scores. The player with the most Victory Points will be the winner.

I. Take A Worker

When playing this game, you need to follow these steps:

• Grab 1 Worker from an Action slot on the Game Board.
• Put the Worker in the first empty Worker slot on your Player Board.
• Complete 1 action based on the Action slot where you took the Worker.

Note: If there are 2 actions displayed in the Action slot, you have to choose only one (refer to page 6 for Available Actions).

You can have up to 6 Workers on your Player Board. Once you have taken 6 Workers, you need to Consolidate on your next turn.

Important: You must pick an action that you are able to fully complete. You cannot choose an action you can’t finish. And once you choose, you must do the action.

Note: The color of the Worker you take does not affect the chosen action. It becomes important only during Consolidation (see page 11).

What Happens When an Action Slot is Empty?

When I finish my turn and there’s an empty Action slot where I took my Worker from, a couple of important things happen:

1. I grab the Workers from the top row, the one that still has some of those little guys left.
2. I put those Workers back in the now-empty Action slot.

What If All the Worker Rows are Empty?

But what if there aren’t any Workers left in any of the rows? In that case, I have to do 3 more things:

Here’s what you need to do: fill all of the Action slots again by picking randomly from the bag. Put 0, 1, 2, or 3 Workers on each slot until there are 3 Workers on every slot.

When I play this game, I begin by refilling all the Worker rows. I do this by grabbing three Workers from the bag and placing them on each row of the Game Board, starting from the top row. I want to emphasize that if there aren’t enough Workers in the bag, I place as many as I can and then continue refilling once more Workers are available.

Next, I move the Scoring Marker one step to the right.

I’m going to explain how scoring works in the game. Pay attention because this is important!

There are three Scoring rounds during the game. Each Scoring round happens when the Scoring Marker passes a specific symbol. Let me show you what I mean:

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The first Scoring happens when the Scoring Marker passes this symbol. It’s like a trigger.

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The second Scoring happens when the Scoring Marker passes this symbol. Another trigger.

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Now, here comes the third Scoring. It happens when the Scoring Marker reaches the first golden slot. But wait, there’s more!

After the third Scoring, the game ends. That’s it. Finished. Over.

Now, let’s move on to the available actions you can take in the game.

When you’re playing the game, all you have to do is pick one action from the slot that matches the Worker you took. Let’s say you want to do a Local Market action, so you’ll need to grab a Worker from the rightmost Action slot.

Just remember, if there are two actions shown in the slot, you get to pick whichever one you like. It’s all about making choices and using your strategy!

Back in the day, huge economic forces known as Zaibatsu ruled the roost. These mega companies were in charge of a whole bunch of different economic stuff, and the way they all worked together made them way more powerful than anyone else out there.

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Let’s build a Factory!

Factories are important buildings that we need to construct. They play a crucial role in our plan. So, what’s special about Factory tiles?

• Good production is a crucial element of the game.
• There are three levels of factories:
• The amount of coal needed to produce goods.
• The storage capacity for goods.
• The bonus from the synergy effect. Each factory offers a different bonus (see Reference Sheet for details).
• The machinery slot (only available on the front side).
• The knowledge requirement for building a factory (only on the back side): 2 for a level-1 factory, 4 for level-2, and 6 for level-3.

To build a factory, follow these steps:

• Select any available factory tile from those next to the game board.
• Pay 6,000 Yen.
• Meet the knowledge requirement for the factory. Your current knowledge level is determined by the number either next to or lower than the position of your knowledge marker on your knowledge track.

If I don’t have enough Knowledge to build a Factory, I need to get rid of some of my Blueprints. But if I don’t have enough Blueprints, I won’t be able to build a Factory at all. The Knowledge requirement doesn’t cost anything; it’s just a way to make sure I know what I’m doing.

Once I meet the Knowledge requirement, I need to place the Factory tile in front of me, facing up. And here’s something important to remember: I can’t have more than one Factory tile that produces the same Good. So, if I already have a Factory that produces, say, Iron, I can’t build another Factory that also produces Iron. It’s a rule to keep things fair and balanced.

Now, let’s move on to Machinery.

In order to make progress, we had to modernize every aspect of our country, no exceptions. It was an all-or-nothing situation.

When playing, you have to make 1 to 3 improvements to your factory.

For each improvement, you need to pay 5,000 Yen and then choose one of these options:

• Install a new machine: Take a Machinery tile from the common supply and place it with the “+1” side up on an empty Machinery slot in one of your Factory tiles.
• Upgrade an existing machine: Flip a Machinery tile that is already on one of your Factory tiles to the “+2” side. Once a tile is flipped to “+2”, it can’t be upgraded again.

Note: Once you place a Machinery tile on your factory, you can’t move or remove it.

When you play the game, it’s important to set up your factories with machines. If you already have factories, try to install or upgrade the machines there. But don’t worry if you can’t, you can still get machinery tiles by spending 5,000 Yen. Place these tiles with the “+1” side up in front of you.

Remember: If you have machinery tiles in your supply, you must install one of them onto your next factory. And if possible, immediately upgrade it by discarding another “+1” tile from your supply and flipping the newly-installed machinery tile to its “+2” side.

Now, Let’s Produce Some Goods!

When I read the lines “Grow the rice to feed the weaver. Weave the cloth to clothe the worker. Employ the worker to make the goods. Sell the goods to buy the rice fields,” I can’t help but be struck by the beautiful cycle of interconnectedness that it represents.

Imagine this: I start by growing rice, not just for my own sustenance but also to feed the weaver. The weaver then takes the harvested rice and weaves it into cloth, which serves the purpose of clothing the worker. This worker, in turn, uses their skills and labor to create goods. And what do we do with those goods? We sell them in order to buy more rice fields, which brings us back full circle.

It’s amazing how each step in this process relies on the others. Without rice, the weaver wouldn’t have food. Without cloth, the worker would be left uncovered. Without the worker, the goods wouldn’t exist. And without the sale of goods, we wouldn’t have the means to expand our rice production.

This cycle highlights the importance of collaboration and interdependence in our society. It’s not just about benefiting ourselves, but also about contributing to the well-being of others. By understanding and embracing this interconnectedness, we can create a thriving and sustainable community.

So, as I reflect on these lines, I am reminded of the power of unity and cooperation. We all have a role to play in this grand scheme of things, and by working together, we can achieve great things.

Hey there! Let me explain how the game works. You’ve got a few Factories that you can run to produce Goods. Each Factory can produce different types of Goods like Silk, Paper, Lenses, and more. It’s up to you to decide which Factories you want to run.

Now, when you run a Factory, you’ll need to keep a few things in mind:

• First, you’ll need to discard some Coal from your Budget area. The amount of Coal you need to discard is shown on the Factory tile. If you don’t have enough Coal, sorry, but the Factory can’t be run.
• Next, you’ll need to take a cube from the common supply and place it in one of the empty slots in the Factory’s Storage Area. If all the slots are already full, you won’t be able to run the Factory.

That’s pretty much it! Just remember, you can run 1 to 3 Factories, depending on how many you want to manage. Good luck!

Let’s dive into the next step, which is Knowledge.

When it comes to understanding the game, there are a few things you should keep in mind. By following these tips, you’ll be able to navigate the game with ease.

Firstly, you have the option to take additional cubes from the common supply. The number of cubes you can take depends on the Machinery tile on the Factory. It can be either +1 or +2. These cubes will be added to the Storage area of that Factory.

However, there’s a catch. If there aren’t enough empty slots on the Factory’s Storage for the additional cubes, you can only place as many cubes as you can fit.

It’s important to note that you cannot use the same Factory more than once per turn. This is to ensure fairness and balance in the game.

By keeping this knowledge in mind, you’ll be able to make strategic decisions and maximize your gameplay experience. Have fun and enjoy the game!

When I seek knowledge, it strengthens the foundation of Imperial rule. This is why I believe in exploring the world to gain a deeper understanding of the world around me.

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So here’s what you gotta do. You need to move your Knowledge level marker up, but only between 1 and 3 steps.

• If you want to move just 1 step, it will cost you 1,000 Yen.
• If you wanna go 2 steps, you gotta pay 3,000 Yen.
• If you’re feeling ready to take a big leap and go 3 steps, it’s gonna cost you 6,000 Yen.

But there’s a catch. Your marker can’t go beyond the top slot. So be careful!

E. Mines

Japan took a different path when it came to harnessing power. Instead of relying on water power, they went straight to steam. As the country embraced industrialization, the need for coal skyrocketed, leading to a significant increase in production.

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Let me break it down for you. You need to move your Coal level marker up by 1 to 3 steps. It’s like taking a little journey towards the top. But, remember, you will need Yen to make those moves. Here’s how it works:

– If you want to move 1 step, it will cost you 1,000 Yen.

– If you want to move 2 steps, it will cost you 3,000 Yen.

– If you want to move 3 steps, it will cost you 6,000 Yen.

But there’s a catch! Your marker cannot go beyond the highest slot. So, aim high but not too high!

Now, let’s talk trains!

The Country’s very first railway line was just 17 miles in length. But by the year 1913, that railway network had grown to an impressive 7,000 miles!

Now, let’s talk about the game. You need to construct 1 to 3 Trains. The cost of each Train is 5,000 Yen. Here’s what you have to do:

1. Take the Train tile(s) that you’ve built from your Player Board, starting from the left side.

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2. Place each of the Train tiles on an empty Train/Ship slot on the Game Board. In each Region, there are 8 Train/Ship slots available. If you place multiple Train tiles with the same action, make sure to put them in different Regions.

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Remember, Trains grant you extra Influence Points during the Scorings.

Next up, let’s move on to Ships.

During this time, the four top Zaibatsu were in direct control of half of Japan’s shipbuilding and maritime shipping. Pretty impressive, right?

Now, let’s talk about building ships. You have the option to build 1 to 3 ships, and each one will cost you 5,000 Yen. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Take the ship tile(s) you want to build from your player board, starting from the left side. You can choose to build more than one ship, but remember to take them one by one.

2. Place each ship tile on an empty train/ship slot on the game board. In each region, there are 8 train/ship slots available. If you’re placing multiple ship tiles, make sure to put them in different regions.

One important thing to note is that ships can earn you extra victory points during the scorings. So, keep that in mind while strategizing your moves.

When I completely reveal this symbol after I take a Train or Ship tile from my Player Board, I get to move my marker up one step on the Money track, if I can. But remember, I can’t move it past the topmost slot!

H. Export

I feel like I need to explain how the Japanese economy worked back in the day. You see, they were all about importing raw materials and then exporting finished products. It was a pretty smart strategy if you ask me.

Now, let’s talk about this cool game I’m playing. It’s called “Fulfill the Contracts.” Basically, you gotta complete one to three contracts to win. At the beginning of the game, each player has eight different contracts to choose from.

To fulfill a contract, here’s what you gotta do: first, pick one of your face-up contract tiles. Then, you gotta get rid of the right amount of goods from your factory’s storage area. The contract tile will show you how many goods you need to toss out.

Now, here’s the tricky part: the white cubes on the contract tile indicate how many different types of goods you need to spend, and the number on each cube shows how many goods of the same type you gotta give up.

Oh, and don’t forget! You gotta fulfill the whole contract at once. No cheating!

Alright, now that you know how to play, let’s get back to the game.

When I play the game Nippon, there are a few things I need to remember. First, when I complete a Contract, I receive a bonus. It can be either Yen or VP, depending on what’s shown on the tile. Then, I get to move my marker on the Money track. I can move it up 1, 2, or 3 steps, as indicated on the bottom right corner of the Contract tile. However, I cannot move beyond the topmost slot. Finally, I flip the Contract tile face down.

Now let’s talk about the Cities and the demand for Goods in the game. During the Meiji period, the Zaibatsu, which were powerful business conglomerates, started selling products from Japan’s industrial revolution to the people living in cities. They were so successful that they eventually drove out foreign competitors.

In the game, there are 2 Cities in each Region. The City tile shows the demand for Goods in that particular city. Around each City, there are 4 Influence slots on the Game Board. These slots represent the level of influence that Overseas Companies have in the Region.

When I perform the Local Market action, I need to supply one of the Goods depicted on the City tile. Then, I place one of my Influence tiles on the corresponding Influence slot. This shows that I have supplied that particular Good to the City.

It’s important to note that the numbers shown on the Influence slots don’t matter during the Local Market action. They only become important during the Scorings if they’re not covered by an Influence tile.

So, these are the things I need to keep in mind while playing Nippon. By following these rules, I can strategize and make the most out of my gameplay experience.

I. My Local Market

Living in my neighborhood, I have the privilege of having a local market that is just a stone’s throw away. It’s a bustling and lively place, full of sights, sounds, and smells that make me feel connected to my community. When I step into the market, I am greeted by the friendly vendors who know me by name. They are always ready to help me find what I need and have a chat about the latest news in the neighborhood.

The market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, fragrant flowers, and delicious snacks. The colorful fruits and vegetables, arranged neatly in baskets, catch my eye and tempt me to fill my shopping bag. The local farmers take pride in their produce, which is grown with care and without the use of any harmful chemicals. The vibrant colors and sweet aromas make me excited to cook and try new recipes.

I love exploring the different stalls and discovering unique items that I couldn’t find anywhere else. The market is a melting pot of cultures, with vendors from various backgrounds offering a wide array of products. Whether it’s handmade crafts, homemade baked goods, or traditional spices, there is always something new and exciting to discover.

But it’s not just the products that make the market special – it’s the sense of community that comes with it. As I walk through the aisles, I see familiar faces – my neighbors, friends, and even classmates. We exchange smiles and friendly hellos, creating a sense of belonging and connection. It’s a place where I not only shop for necessities but also build relationships and strengthen the bonds within my community.

Supporting local businesses is a core value of mine, and the market provides the perfect opportunity to do so. By purchasing from local farmers and artisans, I am not only getting high-quality products, but I am also contributing to the growth and prosperity of my community. It feels good knowing that my money is going directly to the hardworking individuals who put their heart and soul into their craft.

In a world dominated by big-box stores and online shopping, the local market is a breath of fresh air. It reminds me of the importance of shopping locally and supporting the small businesses that make our community unique. So, next time you’re in the area, I encourage you to pay a visit to your local market. You’ll be amazed at the treasures you find and the connections you make along the way.

When I think about it, it wasn’t really a choice that I made based on logical thinking. The truth is, Zaibatsu had to step in and fill the gap in the market – it was necessary.

So, when you’re playing this game, you have to put your Influence tiles on the Game Board. You can place anywhere from 1 to 3 of these tiles in one specific Region.

Now, here’s what you need to do when you place an Influence tile:

• First, you have to get rid of 1, 2, or 3 cubes of the goods you want to supply. Just take them from the Storage Area of the Factory that corresponds to that specific type of good.
• Next, you can place your Influence tile right next to a City section that shows the Good you’re supplying. Make sure the Influence tile has the appropriate value.
• As soon as you do that, you’ll get a bonus for that Region. The type of bonus depends on what’s shown in the Bonus slot of that specific region. It could be 5,000 Yen, 2 Coal, 2 Blueprints, or 2 VP – all pretty valuable things!

By the way: If you decide to place more than one Influence tile at the same time, you have to put them all in the same Region. No spreading them out!

Influencing the Value of a Tile

The value of the Influence tile varies based on the supplied Good and the number of discarded cubes. To find out the value, you can refer to the table on the Game Board.

You have the freedom to place a tile with a lower value if you prefer.

Note: If you want to, you can distribute the cubes among different Influence tiles.

Checking for an Available Influence Slot

An Influence slot is considered available if:

• No Influence tile has been placed on it, OR
• An Influence tile of a lower value than the one you are about to place is already present on the slot. In such cases, the existing Influence tile is returned to its owner, regardless of whose tile it is.

II. Consolidate

When it’s my turn to play, if I can’t or don’t want to take a Worker, I have to Consolidate. Here’s what I do, step by step:

1. Managing My Budget

First, I take care of my money and coal:

• I get rid of all the yen and coal cubes I currently have in my Budget area, putting them back in the common supply.
• Then, I take new yen notes from the common supply and put them in my Budget area based on where my level marker is on the Money Track.
• I also get coal cubes from the common supply and put them in my Budget area based on where my level marker is on the Coal Track. The number of cubes I take is determined by the number to the right of the track, either on or lower than the position of my marker.

2. Earning an Emperor’s Reward

If I have at least 3 Workers on my Player Board, I get an Emperor’s Reward:

• When I’m playing the game, I have to remember to choose a Reward tile from the Game Board. I can pick any tile that’s the same level or lower than the rightmost occupied Worker slot, which can be between 2 and 5. But here’s the thing – if there are only higher-level tiles on the board, I don’t get to pick one. That’s a bummer. And if there are no more tiles left at all, not even at any level, I get to pick a 2x VP Multiplier tile instead. But wait, if those are gone too, I just skip the whole Emperor’s Reward step. It’s all or nothing!
• Now here’s the fun part. Once I choose my Reward tile, I get an awesome bonus right away! It all depends on what’s written on the front of the tile. I could get 5,000 Yen, 2 Blueprints, or 2 Coal cubes. Woohoo! Those goodies will sure come in handy as I play the game.

When I find a Reward / Multiplier tile, I have to put it right away on an empty Achievement space on my Player Board. There can only be one tile on each space. If all the Achievement spaces are already taken, I have to get rid of the tile. It’s important to know that once I place a Reward / Multiplier tile, I can’t move it or take it off for the rest of the game.

When the game ends, each Achievement space gives me victory points (VP) based on the picture shown and any VP multiplier mentioned on the Reference Sheet.

Don’t forget: The tiles with rewards placed on the higher-numbered columns have higher VP multipliers on the back.

3. Workforce

You have to pay for the Workers that are currently on your Player Board. For each different color, you need to pay 3,000 Yen. If you can’t pay, you will lose 2 VP for each color you can’t afford.

Afterward, you will remove all the Workers from your Player Board and put them back in the bag.

If needed, make sure to refill the Worker rows completely.

End of the Game

Hey there! Just a friendly reminder as we dive into the game. Keep in mind that there are three Scoring rounds where each Region gets evaluated. These Scoring rounds happen when the Scoring Marker moves.

Here’s how it works: during each Scoring round, we calculate the amount of Influence each player has in each Region. Then, we figure out who has the most, second most, and third most Influence in that Region. To determine the Influence, we do two things:

1. We add up the value of the Influence tiles each player has in that Region. Take a look at this image for reference: #image.jpg

2. If a player has at least one Influence tile in the Region, they also get to add the value of their Trains placed in that Region. Here’s an image to help you understand: #image.jpg

And that’s how the Scoring works! Remember, the Scoring rounds happen at different points in the game, so keep an eye out for them. Good luck!

Listen up: The Overseas Companies are like extra players that can affect who has the majority. To figure out how much they affect a region, you just add up the numbers on the empty Influence slots in that region.

Let’s talk about scoring in the game. When it comes to scoring, each region is evaluated separately. You have to determine the players with the most Influence, second most Influence, and third most Influence in each region. This information can be found in the table on the Game Board.

If there is a tie between players for any of the positions, you need to add up the Victory Points (VP) for those positions and divide them equally among the tied players. Make sure to round down the result.

Remember: The more Influence you have, the more Victory Points you will score. Keep this in mind as you navigate the game.

Once we reach the end of the third Scoring phase, the game will come to a close, and it will be time for us to tally up our final scores.

The ultimate goal is to have the most Victory Points in order to secure victory. In the event of a tie, the player who took the last turn or is nearest (going counterclockwise) to the last player to take a turn will be declared the winner.