Pyramid: Pyramid Review: Oshi: the Game of Influence

Pyramid Review

Oshi: the Game of Influence

Published by Wizards of the Coast

Designed by Tyler Bielman

Illustrated by Daniel Egneus

Nine-inch square wooden board, 16 plastic game pieces in two colors, & full-color rules; $24.95

Released just in time for Christmas 2005, Tsuro: Game of the Path marked WizKids' entry into the boardgame market, and despite being relatively light in terms of both skill and strategy, the game was both enjoyable and quick to play. It also looked, and felt, very good, and it was clear from the production values that WizKids were intent on giving us something that also looked good on your coffee table.

WizKids now follow this up with a second title aimed at the same spot in your living room. Oshi: the Game of Influence is like Tsuro, simple in scope, light in play, and possesses an oriental theme. Unlike Tsuro, it is strictly a two-player game. Unlike Tsuro, it is not as good looking. Unlike Tsuro, it is not as pleasing to the touch. Unlike Tsuro, it actually requires some thought, offering more depth in terms of strategy.

The theme for Oshi: the Game of Influence is Chinese rather than Japanese. In addition to giving the first Emperor of Japan the "sanshu no jungi," or Imperial Regalia, the Goddess Amaterasu gave him another gift, that of Wisdom. This was in the form of the game "Oshi," or "Push." What it taught the emperor was that influence was a power to be used cautiously because used unwisely it could lead to defeat.
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This article originally appeared in the second volume of Pyramid. See the current Pyramid website for more information.

Article publication date: January 26, 2007

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