unit_description_texts_description_text_Art_European_Cannons これらの後装式の大砲は、米袋で土台を固め、攻城戦の時に壁を打ち破るために使われます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Art_Fire_Projecting_Mangonels 投石機は城の壁の向こうにに投射物を打ち上げるために包囲戦において使われる小さなカタパルトです。そして、敵の守備兵の後に混乱を広めます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Art_Fire_Rockets 大きな火縄銃で武装したこれらの兵は、木製のロケットを装填して火をつけ発射させ、敵の備に混乱と火災をもたらします。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Art_Hand_Mortars Hand mortars can lob shots over the heads of intervening troops, even over high walls. True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Cannon_Ship_Cannon_Bune これらは中型で、適度に速い船です。敵の船が射程距離から離れる前に、備え付けの大砲で砲撃します。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Cav_Missile_Bow_Cavalry これらの侍は乗馬中、狙いをつけて、弓を発射する訓練を積んでおり、優秀な散兵となります。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Cav_Missile_Matchlock_Mounted_Gunner These mounted samurai carry matchlocks, allowing them to fire a deadly volley and then gallop away. True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Cav_Spear_Fire_Cavalry These cavalry are a sword in their general’s hand, ready to slice into a battle line.\n True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Cav_Spear_Great_Guard 最も優秀な侍だけが、槍で武装した騎兵に選ばれます。そのような尊敬された戦士達の存在は、近くの戦友を励まします。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Cav_Spear_Light_Cavalry これらの騎馬侍は短い槍で武装していて、敵の飛び道具の部隊を崩壊させ、敗走兵を追うことに最も適しています。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Cav_Spear_Naginata_Warrior_Monks 恐れと信頼は、強力な武器です。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Cav_Spear_Yari_Cavalry 各々の槍騎馬侍は、素早く戦闘に突入する際に、特に致命傷を与える長い槍で武装しています。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Cav_Sword_Katana_Cavalry これらの重騎兵は目標に向かい突進し刀で敵を殲滅する突撃隊です。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Galleon_Black_Ship 黒船は、高価な物を運ぶ、重装備を搭載した交易船です。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Galleon_Nanban_Trade_Ship この欧米の商船は、海賊からの略奪から守るため、強力な大砲で武装しています。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Gen_Taisho 忠誠を誓った馬廻りは、どんな自己犠牲をも厭わず、総大将を守ります。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Heavy_Ship_Heavy_Bune 安宅船は、艦隊の頼みの綱です。大勢の兵士を積み、弓兵は敵の船に攻撃を仕掛けます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Heavy_Ship_Nihon_Maru この巨大な船は、将軍の個人的な旗艦でありその駐留によって近くの船を強大な闘志で戦うよう鼓舞します。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Heavy_Ship_O_Ataka_Bune この大型船は安宅船をより強大にしたもので、鉄板で船体を強化されています。大勢の兵士を積んでいます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Naginata_Marathon_Monks Faith builds the body, and faith makes outstanding warriors. True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Naginata_Samurai これらの侍は長柄の薙刀で武装しています。長柄の武器は近接戦闘で大きな効果を発揮します。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Naginata_Warrior_Monk_Hero 少数ですがこれらの英雄的な僧侶は優れた精神と腕前を誇ります。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Naginata_Warrior_Monks これらの僧兵は薙刀を巧みに扱い歩兵と騎兵一様に効果を発揮します。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Onna_Bushi これらの貴族女性たちは優雅であるように命がけで、薙刀を装備しています。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Warrior_Nuns Spiritual harmony and beauty should not be mistaken for weakness. True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Ashigaru 弓足軽は前哨部隊として扱われる軽装弓兵で長い射程距離で敵を一斉射撃します。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Bandits Banditry teaches a man much that is useful in warfare, such as striking from an unexpected direction. True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Hero 特段優秀な弓兵は敵の頭上に火矢を降らせることが出来ます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Samurai 弓侍は優れた射撃術で火矢の正確な一斉射撃を放つことが出来ます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Wako 弓倭寇は優れた矢の一斉射撃で、敵を攻撃します。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Warrior_Monks これらの腕の立つ僧兵は離れた的に火矢を射かけ、期待通りの働きをします。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Daikyu_Samurai When archer and bow are as one, anything is possible. True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Heavy_Gunners For some targets a simple musket is disrespectful. Better by far to use a heavy gun. True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Matchlock_Ashigaru これらの火縄銃で武装した足軽兵は離れた敵兵に一斉射撃を仕掛けます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Matchlock_Samurai これらの火縄銃で武装した侍は離れた敵兵に一斉射撃を仕掛けます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Missile_Matchlock_Warrior_Monks 火縄銃で武装した僧兵は、敵の備に破壊的な一斉射撃を仕掛けます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Spear_Bulletproof_Samurai It takes true samurai to charge into musket fire – and prevail! True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Spear_Extra_Long_Yari_Ashigaru These men carry exceptionally long spears, pikes in effect, making them extremely dangerous to cavalry. True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Spear_Yari_Ashigaru これらの足軽兵は、近接戦闘もしくは騎兵に対する槍衾を組むのに使う長槍で武装しています。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Spear_Yari_Hero これらの槍の達人は、防御に長けており、敵の騎兵に致命傷を与えます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Spear_Yari_Samurai これらの槍を巧みに扱う戦士は、先陣を切るか、槍衾を組むために扱われます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Special_Fire_Bomb_Throwers 焙烙を投げる勇敢な兵です！敵に危険な火器を投げ込むことで、名誉を得られるのです！ True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Special_Kisho_Ninjas 忍者は戦闘で身を潜め、凶悪な奇襲を仕掛けることが出来ます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Sword_Katana_Ashigaru 刀足軽は刀で武装した重装歩兵で隊の中心を担い敵の歩兵と戦います。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Sword_Katana_Hero 剣聖は白兵戦において信じられないほど腕が立ちます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Sword_Katana_Samurai 鋭さと硬さを兼ね備えた両手刀で武装した上級歩兵です。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Sword_Katana_Wako 倭寇は鋭い刀で武装しています。獰猛な戦士であり槍兵に対し優れています。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Sword_Nodachi_Samurai これらの歩兵は大きく重い野太刀を装備し戦いでは恐ろしい突撃をします。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Sword_Samurai_Retainers これらの重装歩兵は刀を持ち、大名の信頼を以てして守備兵の殿となります。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Inf_Sword_Wako_Raiders Piracy prepares men to fight unfairly and with deceit. A wise commander uses these skills. True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Light_Ship_Bow_Ship 弓小早は小型で速く、敵の乗組員を攻撃する弓兵を乗せています。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Light_Ship_Fire_Bomb_Ship これらの船は小型で速く、敵の船に爆弾を投げる焙烙兵を乗せています。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Light_Ship_Matchlock_Ship この軽船は火縄銃で武装した少数の兵士を乗せています。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Light_Ship_Siege_Tower_Ship この船は敵の甲板に居る兵を上から攻撃する鉄砲部隊の櫓があります。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Medium_Ship_Medium_Bune これらの船は万能で、頼りになる乗員、猛烈な速さは十分に強力です。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Medium_Ship_Sengoku_Bune これらの中型の船は一つの帆を持ち十分な速さで航行し鈍足な船に攻撃を仕掛けます。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Medium_Ship_Wako_Medium_Bune これらの中型船はすべての目的にかなっており、鈍足で扱いにくい船にならない程度に十分に大型です。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Placeholder Placeholder True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Trade_Ship_Red_Seal_Ship 朱印船は大型の交易船です。その大きさに関わらず、未だに無防備です。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Trade_Ship_Trade_Ship これらの船は非武装です。戦闘用より交易用に建造され、戦闘は避けるべきです。 True
unit_description_texts_description_text_Trade_Ship_Wako_Trade_Ship この船はありとあらゆる交易船を妨害しつつ、弱い格下を餌食とする倭寇を乗せています。 True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Art_European_Cannons \n\nこれらの大砲は戦の始めにおいて慎重に設置されます。防衛にはよく持ちこたえますが、砲撃手は脆弱です。欧州式の大砲は砲撃に時間がかかり不正確ですが、標的が大きな城の壁であるうちはこの問題はたいして大きくありません！一度配置すると、長大な射程距離で建造物に大きな損傷を与えます。\n\n戦国時代は日本の戦争のやり方を集団戦闘に変えました。以前は、戦争というものは侍による一騎打ちが主流でしたが、軍団の巨大化及び火器の登場は戦国大名が生き残るために採用した軍事戦略でした。1543年に、日本人は初めて、後に南蛮交易を通して日本に火縄銃と大砲を持ち込むポルトガル人と接触しました。将軍として名を築き上げた徳川家康は大坂の陣でこれらの大砲を用いました。皮肉にも、家康の孫だった、徳川家光は鎖国を推し進め外国との接触を止め日本は1853年まで国を閉じたのでした。 True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Art_Fire_Projecting_Mangonels \n\n小型で制限された投擲能力によって、モンゴネルは大砲ほどの破壊力は持たないので、城壁を破壊するというより、その壁の向こう側を砲撃するため壁は無視します。モンゴネルの投射物は小型の陶器に火薬を詰め込まれ端にバケツの中に置かれたた爆弾です。それから、ヒューズに点火され、そして、爆弾はどんな障害についてでも弧を描くように放り込まれます。上手く行けば爆発を起こし、火災を広げ、近くにいた兵士は混乱し周りの構造物にも火が及びます。一度設置されたら、モンゴネルは、砲撃手が脆弱であり敵の攻撃から守らなければなりません。\n\n歴史的には、日本では街に壁を建てるよりむしろ別の場所に要塞を建てており、元寇では攻城戦に持ち込むことで敵を無力にしました。城壁を打ち壊そうとする代わりに、日本人は攻撃側は要塞に駆け込み守備側は接触するために反撃に撃って出ます。これは敵同士で顔を合わせる戦場において名誉ある戦争のやり方と考えられていました！モンゴネルやトレビュシェットのような攻城兵器を使われると、彼らは攻城戦の補助として使用されるというより非人道的な目的に使用されました。 True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Art_Fire_Rockets \n\n大筒兵は手持ちの火縄銃から打ち上げるため、攻城兵器より機動的です。しかしながら、大砲より火力と精度に劣り、城壁を打ち破るためには使われません。そのかわり、大筒は城壁を越えて大きく弧を描き長距離で敵の頭上に雨を降らし、一連の動作で構造物にも火を付けパニックと破壊をもたらします。\n\n戦国時代において、日本人は火器として焙烙や大筒を海戦で用いました。毛利家の小早川隆景は大筒を用い敵船を砲撃し、多くの船も焙烙の砲手を乗せたり、火器を撃つための小型のカタパルトを積んでいました。日本の船は木製の城が浮かんでいるように大きく、また戦略の一つとして敵船の横に船を止め、まるで船が土地の要塞であるように、乗り込んで、最後まで戦ったのです！ True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Art_Hand_Mortars \n\nAs gunpowder weapons hand mortars are, of course, noisy and smelly, but they have the advantage of using indirect fire thanks to the high trajectory of the missiles. The men have to be well trained to use them. Despite the danger they can pose to an enemy, they are vulnerable in close combat, and the small numerical strength of the unit means that they can be quickly overwhelmed. They may very well see discretion as a good course of action and break when charged. \n\nHand mortars might be considered dangerous for the user, but lack of concern for danger seems to have been something the Hojo regularly flirted with. Rather than take his duties as shikken of the Kamakura Shogunate seriously, Hojo Takatoki did anything and everything else. He was certainly considered “barely sane” by his contemporaries. He enjoyed the finer things of life, regardless of the dishonour that his rather louche and un-samurai ways brought to his name and family. The “Taiheiki” chronicle of medieval Japan says “By day and by night, with wanton acts he dishonoured his glorious ancestors under the ground; in the morning and in the evening, with vain merriment he invited ruin in his lifetime.” True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Cannon_Ship_Cannon_Bune \n\nCannon bunes carry few crewmen and are no match for heavy ships in terms of manpower or size. Instead they are designed to act as “skirmishers” where their size is an advantage: their guns can do immense damage to an enemy vessel’s hull or crew. The bune’s oarsmen can put on a burst of speed for a short time, if needed. The sides and roof of the cannon bune are covered in thick bamboo, with small holes for the cannon to poke through, making it impossible for enemy soldiers to board it. \n\nMedieval Japanese naval warships could be classified into three weights: heavy, medium and light. Light ships were primarily used for scouting and communication missions, and were considered too small for battle.\n\nThe Tokugawa clan did create a hybrid ship for their siege of the Osaka coastal fortress in 1615. It was small and light but also functioned as an assault ship. Based on the kobaya ships, this new type, the mekura bune, or ‘blind ship’, had fewer oarsmen to make room for additional cannons and archers. The bamboo protection covering it resembled a shell, drawing comparisons with the Korean’s famous ‘turtle ship’. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Cav_Missile_Bow_Cavalry \n\nWith both hands occupied by aiming and firing a bow, these men must use their knees to control and steer their mounts. Japan has a long tradition of mounted archery and these troops remain invaluable despite the introduction of gunpowder. Matchlocks may be powerful, but they are also unreliable and inaccurate, and the ashigaru who use them simply lack the skills and mobility of mounted samurai. These cavalry archers can quickly move to the flanks of an enemy, or harass the enemy at a distance. If caught in melee, they have enough training to defend themselves, but they should avoid fighting spearmen or heavy cavalry.\n\nThe introduction of arquebuses in the Sengoku Jidai threatened Japan’s ancient tradition of mounted archery. Guns meant that a daimyo could bolster his army with large numbers of arquebus-armed ashigaru rather than relying on the skilful, but less numerous, samurai.\n\nFortunately for the samurai, horse archery was too important a tradition to die out, and the art survived. For training, they would shoot at corralled dogs, or at wooden targets while speeding along a set course. The latter training method, called ‘yabusame’ is still practiced today at special demonstrations for visiting dignitaries, and participation is considered a great honour. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Cav_Missile_Matchlock_Mounted_Gunner \n\nThe matchlocks actually make them an effective counter to many other cavalry and, as might be expected, their firepower against all other units is quite formidable. Unlike other musketeers, they can move quickly across the battlefield, and actually use skirmishing tactics to stay out of trouble. They are good shots, but their reloading speeds are on the slow side. Being samurai, they can defend themselves in close combat, but should not be committed to a melee without a good reason. They are, like many horsemen, vulnerable to fire from massed infantry archers. \n\nEvery army that used muzzle-loading guns from horseback discovered that they were difficult to use well. As might be expected, horses can be a trifle skittish when loud bangs keep happening just behind their heads. Then there is the entirely separate problem of reloading: getting powder, ball and wadding down a barrel while a horse prances about is not easy at the best of times. Ramming home a bullet in a metre-long gun with a metre long stick is painful, and dropping anything just doesn’t bear thinking about! Europeans, who stuck with firearms after the samurai abandoned them, eventually developed the short carbine, or equipped their cavalry with anything up to a dozen pistols to avoid reloading in action. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Cav_Spear_Fire_Cavalry \n\nFire cavalry are best used as a shock formation, charging home into a melee to smash aside nearly all enemies. They are, of course, particularly effective if they can charge into the flanks or rear of an enemy unit. In melee they can be used against infantry and cavalry alike, although as with all horsemen they need to be carefully handled when in battle against naginata- or spear-armed troops. As with all melee units, they can be vulnerable to concentrated missile fire; historically this was amply demonstrated at the Battle of Nagashino when Oda musketeers shattered the Takeda cavalry attack. \n\nUntil Nagashino, the Takeda clan were famed as horsemen and their cavalry were rightly feared by rival clans. In battle, an opening charge into the enemy became a standard Takeda tactic, and one which served them well. Enemies knew what was coming, and were often demoralised by the prospect. \n\nThey were also often demoralised by the thought of facing Takeda Shingen, one of the few men who was the equal of Oda Nobunaga as a commander. Shingen was ably served by his cavalrymen, and by his “Twenty Four Generals”, a group of close retainers. Some of them were rather closer than you might expect: Shingen’s favourite, Kosaka Masanobu, was bound to the warlord by a love-pact sworn before the gods, that Shingen would not take another as lover. Such “shudo” arrangements between samurai were not uncommon, as it was expected that the parties would be loyal unto death to each other, a useful vow on the battlefield. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Cav_Spear_Great_Guard \n\nThese elite warriors ride heavy horses, and their power in full charge is focused to deliver a devastating spear attack, crashing through many enemies with ease. Great guard samurai have high morale and great prestige, making them inspiring to nearby friendly units. The guard are vulnerable to missile attacks. Spearmen, the other great danger to cavalry, can be flanked by a careful guard commander and then smashed by the guards’ heavy charge.\n\nHistorically, the Tokugawa created several guard units during and immediately after their rise to the shogunate. The “oban” or great guard were the personal bodyguards of Tokugawa Ieyasu in 1590. By 1600, these guards had multiplied with many “kumi” or companies in existence. Additional guard units were also raised: the “Ryoban” or "Two Guards of the Body Guard" and the "Inner Guard". There was another force called the "Honourable Body Guard" who only guarded the shogun at night in Edo. A generation after the Sengoku Jidai, the “Goshinban” or "Honourable New Guard" were added to the roster, although this may have been to keep troublesome younger members of samurai families out of trouble and under the shogun’s eye! True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Cav_Spear_Light_Cavalry \n\nLight cavalry are swift, and can deliver a devastating charge thanks to their spears. However, they should then break off, reform and attack again rather than remaining in melee. Like all samurai, they are well motivated by their sense of honour and have high morale in battle. Their speed over a battleground comes in useful when chasing down fleeing troops, or when they are needed to deliver a final blow to wavering enemies. They are, however, the weakest cavalry when fighting infantry, and are vulnerable if mishandled when facing spear infantry or if left within range of missile troops.\n\nHistorically, mounted combat was the traditional identifier of the samurai as a warrior and social class, just like the knights of medieval Europe. Being a mounted warrior required wealth and position to sustain the expense of horses, armour and servants. Perhaps this goes some way to explaining why many samurai came to fight on foot, as it was cheaper to take part in battle! Some traditions, however, such as seeking out an equally skilled and honourable foe refused to die, even though they ran counter to the idea of army and unit discipline. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Cav_Spear_Naginata_Warrior_Monks \n\nEach of these warrior monks is armed with a naginata, a polearm that is very effective against cavalry. Thanks to being mounted themselves, these monks are a formidable force in close combat, especially against other cavalry. They can be used to counter enemy cavalrymen, relieving other, slower units in the process. Naginata warrior monk cavalry are not quite as effective against infantry units, but are still a terrifying sight. Their faith sustains them in battle, giving them high morale and a fearsome reputation. \n\nThe naginata was a polearm that looked like a sword-bladed short spear. It was used much like a sword, but with a far longer reach. It could be used to slash or block, both on foot and mounted. In the hands of a master, and most monks were masters in this traditional weapon, it was deadly indeed, and a blow was quite capable of cutting a man in two. The Ikko-Ikki also adopted this weapon for its fearsome appearance, and it was also considered a suitable weapon for a lady. Many samurai women used it for home defence when their menfolk were away at war. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Cav_Spear_Yari_Cavalry \n\nYari cavalry focus all the power of their fearsome charge into the points of the long spears they carry as they smash into enemy cavalry and infantry alike. Their high morale spurs them into battle and keeps them from routing, even when engaged in melee, where their spears are at a disadvantage. Yari cavalry are best used to attack the rear or flanks of infantry to avoid spear counter-attacks and getting caught in messy, close-quarters fighting. Their amazing speed over the ground makes this entirely possible, as they can rarely be caught even by other cavalry units.\n\nDuring the Sengoku Jidai, the spear and sword superseded the bow as the weapons of choice for samurai cavalry. Despite a long tradition of mounted archery, a bow could not be used in melee, leaving cavalry archers vulnerable to counter-attacks by foot soldiers. Spears, on the other hand, could be used to break enemy defences in a full charge, or used in quick, slashing strokes whilst in close combat. Swords could be used to cut an enemy down, but obviously lacked the range of a bow, or spear. However, if a samurai was wealthy enough, he would have an attendant to carry and hand him his bow, spear or sword, depending on the situation and personal preference. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Cav_Sword_Katana_Cavalry \n\nCavalry warfare is traditionally the preserve of the samurai. Only they have the skill to wield a sword while steering a horse into battle. Katana cavalry are extremely well trained and the weight of their steeds adds to the power of their charge. After a charge, they remain mounted and can engage the enemy with their katana keeping a height advantage over foot soldiers. However, they are vulnerable when facing spears, whether as a wall of spears or a lone, brave enemy thrusting at the belly of a horse.\n\nThe Sengoku Jidai saw Japanese warfare shift from the ritualistic, single combat fought by honour-hungry samurai to the kind of indiscriminate, larger battles that were taking place in medieval Europe. Less skilled troops such as the ashigaru were introduced and then armed with matchlocks, but mounted warfare was still for samurai alone. Bows, spears and katana were all used from horseback and, if a samurai was wealthy enough, he would have an assistant to carry and hand him his weapons as needed. The katana, although traditionally used with two-hands, could still be effective when used in a one-handed grip by a horseman. Swung downwards onto an enemy foot soldier, the sharp, curved blade could easily cut through a man. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Galleon_Black_Ship \n\nThis Portuguese trade ship carries goods to China once a year before returning to Europe. As a consequence, it passes the Japanese coast twice, and is a tempting target for the notorious wako pirates. Fortunately, it is heavily armed, strongly built and a good sailer. The Black Ship carries European cannons, powerful enough to destroy any Japanese ship that might threaten it! Obviously, it would be a magnificent prize!\n\nThe first trade between Japan and Portugal occurred in 1543, when Tanagashima Tokitaka purchased “firelocks” from Portuguese merchants. These were the first “modern” firearms seen in Japan, and the weapons became much sought after. With one sale, the Portuguese created a market for regular trade between the two countries. The introduction of guns changed Japanese warfare, as the emphasis switched from samurai fighting single combat duels on the battlefield to mass volleys by ashigaru units. The second major outside import appeared swiftly, as with later batches of guns came Christian missionaries. Daimyo and lesser men converted, although without necessarily abandoning the samurai ethos of warfare. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Galleon_Nanban_Trade_Ship \n\nEuropean or ‘nanban’ traders are the main source for cannons and matchlock firearms, along with other valuable goods, such as silk from China. Their cargo also makes them a prime target for the notorious wako pirates who haunt the Japanese coastline. For protection, trade ships are fitted with powerful European cannons, giving them some of the capabilities of a warship. If a daimyo can afford it, and is willing to trust barbarous, uncouth Europeans, he can hire these ships for his fleet, but at a very high cost. A typical “nanban” ship was the caravel, a European design with two masts and lateen-rigged sails.\n\nNanban means “southern barbarian”, the term used for the European merchants who traded with Japan from the 1540s onwards. Japan had little contact with outsiders, and Europeans were considered coarse and crude when measured against traditional Japanese etiquette. The nanban trade brought European weapons and goods from China, but suspicion of European motives and the influx of Christian missionaries eventually resulted in the policy of “sakoku”. In 1633 Japan became a ”locked country” and foreigners were banned from entry. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Gen_Taisho \n\nA general oversees a battle and provides an inspiring example to men whose courage is beginning to falter. His loyal bodyguards consider death in the line of duty to be the greatest thing a warrior can hope to achieve. They are hand-picked samurai of great courage and exceptional skill in combat. This unit can carry out vital manoeuvres such as flanking attacks or chasing routers, but that may leave the general vulnerable, so any aggressive action should be undertaken with great caution.\n\nHistorically, daimyo surrounded themselves with a large retinue of bodyguards, weapon carriers and various other attendants. The second great unifier of Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1536-1598) had seven men who acted as bodyguards, named ‘yello-horo-shu’ after the gold horo they wore, a mark of their great importance. A daimyo may also have had a ‘zori tori’, who acted as a close personal assistant. Even the task of carrying a warlord’s sandals was seen as a great honour, as the attendant was hand-picked by the daimyo himself, proving that he could be trusted and was therefore worthy of respect. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Heavy_Ship_Heavy_Bune \n\nA heavy bune is a bulky, boxy warship with thick wooden-panelled sides to protect the ship and crew alike. Inside it carries a large number of boarding troops, some armed with bows to fire from the loopholes in the panels. The size and weight of the vessel can make it slow and unresponsive, but it is not built for speed. Instead, it serves as a floating platform in battle. Sailing in close to an enemy ship, the crew uses grappling hooks to lash the vessels together, and then the boarding party engage the enemy in hand-to-hand combat.\n\nDuring the Sengoku Jidai, large ships were common. The ‘o ataka bune’ resembled a floating castle and carried armed samurai and ashigaru as well as sailors to man it. The Japanese did not rely on cannon to sink enemy ships, but would board and fight face-to-face as if they were on land. The o ataka bune was specifically built for this tactic and had a folding bridge section that opened so that troops could cross from one vessel to another. This way of fighting was in keeping with the samurai ideal of combat, where a warrior would seek out a worthy opponent and fight in single combat. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Heavy_Ship_Nihon_Maru \n\nThe Nihon Maru is an extremely heavy ship. It is, in fact, the largest ship used for naval warfare. Looking very much like a vast floating fortress, it has a massive superstructure with an impressive three-storey keep as a centrepiece. It is a physical manifestation of the shogun’s power, and its presence is enough to raise the morale of nearby friendly ships and keep them fighting. It carries a large number of soldiers for boarding actions, but its sheer size and extravagant design makes it a slow and cumbersome vessel. \n\nHistorically, the Nihon Maru was a huge, three-decker flagship, built for the daimyo Toyotomi Hideyoshi in 1591. It was a lavish masterpiece that symbolised Hideyoshi’s wealth, power and ambition and it was decorated with Shinto designs and a brocade curtain. Although built to impress visitors, it did see action during the Korean War of 1592 when the Koreans attacked the harbour of Angolp’o. The Nihon Maru had just returned from battle and was an irresistible target for the Koreans’ fire arrows. Fortunately, the ship’s three-fold curtain functioned as an arrow catcher, and a team of carpenters kept the ship seaworthy by quickly repairing damage caused by Korean cannons, ensuring the Nihon Maru survived the onslaught. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Heavy_Ship_O_Ataka_Bune \n\nThis massive vessel is based on the heavy bune with some improvements. It carries a large number of troops for boarding actions, and its thick, wooden panels are covered in iron plating. This makes the hull particularly strong. Despite being a big ship, it can still achieve a speed comparable to an heavy bune. This matters little as the ship is built for size and power: it sails alongside an enemy ship, attaches itself with grappling hooks and then troops swarm onto the enemy deck. However, the o ataka bune is still vulnerable to cannon and no matter how thick the wood it will still burn if hit by fire arrows.\n\nIn 1576, Oda Nobunaga besieged the stronghold of the rebellious Ikko-Ikki warrior monks, hoping to end their opposition to his rule. The monks had powerful allies in the Mori clan, and Oda realised he would have to prevent Mori supplies reaching the Ikko-Ikki if he was to be victorious. Mori naval superiority triumphed in the first battle but Oda made a second attempt, this time with six specially constructed o ataka bune vessels. These ships were giants covered in iron plating, and gave him victory, despite their unfortunate tendency to capsize in action! True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Naginata_Marathon_Monks \n\nThe marathon monks take the training of the body, and therefore the spirit, to extreme lengths. Faith makes them take on gruelling marches until they have honed their bodies to perfection. This gives them incredible speed and resistance to fatigue on the battlefield. With each man carrying a naginata, they are deadly fighters when they arrive at a melee. They are not invulnerable, though, and can be shot down like other men, and need careful handling when facing other naginata-armed troops. \n\nThe marathon monks of Mount Hiei followed the Tendai school of Buddhism. Unlike most other branches of Buddhism, Tendai adherents maintained that enlightenment could be achieved in a single lifetime. In order to attain their goal, the monks underwent the “Kaihogyo”, a gruelling test of physical endurance that saw them travelling a distance of 30km a day on foot, 100 days in a row, for five consecutive years. The target then increased to 60km for 100 days in the sixth year and 84km every day for the 100 days of travel in the seventh year. Throughout this challenge the monks were expected to keep their bodies upright and their long straw hats completely straight, no matter how rocky the path. To call this epic journey a “marathon” seems something of an understatement! True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Naginata_Samurai \n\nThe naginata is a long staff with a curved blade fixed to the end. Its length and flexibility of use make it a great melee weapon. Like all samurai, these warriors have trained hard to achieve full mastery of their chosen weapon and excel when fighting enemy cavalry and infantry. Despite their versatility, they are still vulnerable to the very best cavalry and infantry and they have little protection against missile attacks.\n\nHistorically, the naginata proved to be a very adaptable weapon, used by a variety of different groups in many ways. Samurai women were trained to use it in self-defence when their men were away at war, where the polearm’s length compensated for the height disparity between men and women. The sohei warrior monks used it en masse, which suited their mob-like formations, while samurai used it both when mounted and on foot. To extend its already formidable reach, a samurai would hold the end of his naginata and whirl it above his head, or stand up in the stirrups of their horses and use slashing motions at the enemy. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Naginata_Warrior_Monk_Hero \n\nThe warrior monk hero and his attendants are a fearsome force when assaulting an enemy line or acting as the anchor of a defensive position. Their spirit and faith makes them almost-unbreakable in combat: they simply do not know how to retreat! They are excellent in melee against both infantry and cavalry, and can do horrendous damage to any missile units they attack. However, because of the unit’s numbers, the monks are vulnerable to being swamped by larger forces. \n\nOn the battlefield, they are quite distinctive in their cowls and headscarves. Naginata warrior monks are heavily armoured, and carry the fearsome naginata, a razor-sharp blade set on a long pole-arm. In the hands of a skilled expert, a naginata can disembowel a horse, or cleave a rider in two. \n\nDespite retiring from the world to monasteries, many monks had martial arts training, and saw this as a way of attaining enlightenment. Their training often made them very deadly enemies, particularly as they also had a sense of social justice. They would fight hard for what they thought was right, not just for a lord. This made them formidable and dangerous enemies, and excellent allies when they could be persuaded to support a daimyo. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Naginata_Warrior_Monks \n\nA warrior with an unshakable faith can be very dangerous, for the truly devout have little to fear from death. For these monks, faith is not just a matter of conscience, but another weapon and one that gives them very good morale in battle. The weapon they carry is a naginata, a long staff with a blade fixed to the end. The polearm’s long reach makes it effective against cavalry and infantry, but this versatility is no protection against specialist troops.\n\nA naginata was, and still is, a polearm weapon similar to the medieval European glaive: a long, wooden shaft with a curved killing blade. The blade varied in length and was made to the same quality standard as a sword blade. These distinctive looking weapons were closely associated with warrior monks, and most famously used by Gochin no Tajima (Tajima the “arrow cutter”) at the battle of Uji in 1180. Gochin was part of a group of samurai and warrior monks pursued by the Taira clan. He made a defensive stand at a bridge, whirling his naginata with such expertise that the enemy’s arrows harmlessly bounced away. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Onna_Bushi This unit is made up of women warriors armed with the naginata, a long pole arm that is tipped with a deadly curved sword-blade. These fearless samurai women have outstanding morale and excel in melee combat. They are most powerful against sword-armed infantry but if properly handled, they can execute devastating flank attacks against enemy spearmen as well. Because their numbers are few, the onna bushi can be swamped by larger, less skilled enemy units. \n\nHistorically, Japanese women were trained to defend their homes in times of war but few took part in open battle. Those who did quickly became legends. In the “Heike Monogatari”, an account of the Genpei War, Tomoe Gozen, a female samurai of the Minamoto clan, is described as “especially beautiful, with white skin, long hair, and charming features”. She was also recorded as being “a remarkably strong archer, and as a swordswoman she was a warrior worth a thousand, ready to confront a demon or a god, mounted or on foot.” She was one of the last warriors standing at the Battle of Awazu, even outliving her master who was struck down by an arrow during the fight. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Heavy_Warrior_Nuns \n\nWarrior nuns do not wear armour, but then they are usually trained well enough not to need it. They rely on skill to avoid attacks, although they are vulnerable to missile fire. They are armed with the deadly naginata, a sword blade on a quarterstaff-length pole. In the hands of an expert, a naginata can be used to cut down a foe, disembowel a horse, decapitate the rider, and turn aside any counter stroke. Women who carry the naginata are rarely less than experts in its use. \n\nThere was a long tradition of samurai women defending their castles and homes when their men were on campaign. Women who became nuns did not necessarily retire from the world like their European, Christian counterparts. Their religious devotion did not interfere with caring about their families’ fate and defence. The last hurrah of women warriors was in 1868, during the violent struggles that accompanied the Meiji Restoration. The women of Aizu stood alongside their men in opposing the new central government, and fought to the last; twenty-two of them eventually committed suicide rather than be captured.\n\n True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Ashigaru \n\nThese soldiers do not possess the prowess or prestige of samurai, but they are still a formidable force. In the same time it takes to fire and reload a firearm once, these archers can loose a dozen arrows upon the enemy. Once hand-to-hand fighting starts they should retreat to safety behind the battle line, as bow ashigaru are not trained or properly equipped for melee. They must also be wary of cavalry, having little defence against a charge.\n\nHistorically, bow ashigaru were used as skirmishers and sharpshooters, and were also expected to take part in close combat once they had fired all their arrows. Perhaps surprisingly, they were not made obsolete by the arrival of guns. While gunners reloaded, archers could continue to fire arrows, providing cover and maintaining the pressure on an enemy.\n\nIt was the job of the yumi ko gashira, an ashigaru commander, to judge when the enemy was in range and when to fire so that no arrows were wasted. Assistants would be ready with well-stocked boxes of arrows for resupply, and, if they ran out, an archer could always pick up enemy arrows and return them to the original owners! True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Bandits \n\nThese ruthless bandits appear to able to hide behind a single cherry blossom! This is not quite the case, but this is of little comfort to their enemies. They can hide in almost any terrain, move and remain hidden, and even fire their bows and remain hidden! As a force for discomforting and harassing an enemy in wooded or other congested terrain, they have few equals: it is difficult for an enemy to fight someone he cannot see. Like many archers, however, they will be quickly cut to pieces if they are engaged in melee, and can be ridden down by cavalry if left in an exposed position. \n\nThe Hattori were one of many smaller clans in and around Iga province and, like many families with local connections in the area, they were well aware of the ninjutsu tradition kept alive in Iga province. Ninja were not the end of the local lawlessness in what was a fairly lawless time. Banditry was not only common, it was sometimes the only way for the people of Iga to survive; they preyed upon their neighbours and rivals. It did, however, make them a useful source of underhanded, murderous and sneaky fellows in times of war. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Hero These archers have few equals. They loose arrows at breathtaking speed and can fire whistling arrows which make enemies quail. Their deadliest weapons are fire arrows, flaming projectiles that have a devastating effect on wooden structures and people alike. These archers have nigh-unbreakable morale, but their lack of numbers leaves them vulnerable if attacked in melee by large enemy forces, as they are not trained well in the arts of hand-to-hand combat.\n\nJapanese legends tell of Tawara Toda, an archer who came to the aid of the Dragon King, Kami Ryujin. Whilst crossing a bridge on Lake Biwa, Tawara Toda stepped over a huge serpent that turned into a dragon: Kami Ryujin. The Dragon King begged Tawara Toda to help him banish a giant centipede that was laying waste to his kingdom. The two went to fight the centipede. Tawara Toga fired two arrows into its body, but to no effect. He considered their predicament, wetted the end of an arrow with his saliva and shot again. The centipede was slain and Kami Ryujin rewarded Tawara Toda with an inexhaustible sack of rice, hence Tawara Toda or “Lord Rice Bale”. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Samurai \n\nArchery has a long history in Japanese warfare and every samurai is expected to have mastered the art. Less skilled warriors can be trained to fire en masse, but it takes dedication and skill to shoot with accuracy, particularly in the heat of battle. Bow samurai can also shoot fearsome flaming missiles. These troops have high morale and are well-trained so can fight in melee if needed. They are vulnerable if attacked by cavalry.\n\nIn early samurai culture, proficiency with the bow was just as important as with the katana. In the 12th century, battles often started with an archery duel between the two factions, signalled by the firing of special whistling arrows. The Sengoku Jidai saw the bow marginalised as warfare changed. Individual battles of skill were replaced by sheer numbers and mass volleys. Also, the arquebus could be used by ordinary foot soldiers, and the spear could be used in close combat. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Wako \n\nThese men are pirates with no honour and no code to follow. They fight to protect the regions they control and live off plundered goods and by extorting money from others. True, they are not samurai, but they still know how to fight!\n\nIn the time it takes to fire and reload a matchlock firearm, these men can loose a dozen arrows at the enemy with a reasonable degree of accuracy. Once the enemy starts getting close, these pirates retreat behind friendly melee troops for protection. They are not armed or trained for close combat and are very vulnerable to cavalry attacks.\n\nThe Japanese ability to deal with their pirate problem was hindered by the civil war and the lack of a strong central government. The Chinese and Koreans, who were on the receiving end of many wako depredations, continually demanded that the Japanese deal with the pirates, but each solution only seemed to halt them for a short while. Attacks on known wako ports, mass beheadings and even bans on foreign trade did not seem to make much difference to the wako. In 1588, Toyotomi Hideyoshi declared that any fighting in Japanese waters was illegal at the same time as he banned peasants and other non-samurai from owning swords. This effectively made piracy almost impossible, also hindering anyone thinking of raising a revolt. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Bow_Warrior_Monks \n\nWarrior monks are armed with powerful bows that can send arrows into enemies at a surprising, and fatal, distance. They can also bombard foes with fire arrows, weapons that are both incendiary and terrifying in equal measure, especially in a country such as Japan where buildings are largely made of wood. These warrior monks need careful handling in the presence of the enemy. They are not specially trained to fight in melee, and are likely to suffer if they are attacked by cavalry. Because of their small numbers, they will not last long if they are left in close combat, regardless of any friendly support.\n\nBow warrior monks practice archery with the same dedication they give to their religious duties. Indeed, the skill and still poise required for archery practice is as much an act of meditation as any amount of quiet, monkish contemplation. Long years of practice, however, pay off in battle because the technique of using a bow is so ingrained as to be done without thought or hesitation. Given reasonable weather, monks could, and did, kill anything and anyone foolish enough to stray into range. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Daikyu_Samurai \n\nArmed with the powerful daikyu, these samurai are capable of breathtaking feats of archery. The sheer size of their weapon dramatically increases their range and their accuracy is the envy of many. Due to its size the daikyu takes longer to nock than other bows giving these warriors slower reload times, but the damage it causes on impact more than compensates. Like most archers Chosokabe daikyu samurai are weak in melee and vulnerable to attack from enemy cavalry. \n\nThe bow has always played an important role in the myths and legends of warrior societies. In The Tale of the Heike the Emperor Konoe fell ill after being plagued night after night by terrible nightmares. His loyal samurai, Minamoto no Yorimasa, realised that a dark cloud had appeared above the palace shortly before the Emperor fell ill. Determined to get to the bottom of this phenomenon, he spent all night on the palace roof and in the early hours of the morning fired an arrow into the centre of the dark cloud. From the midst of the cloud fell the body of a nue, a legendary creature with the head of a monkey, the body of a tanuki, the legs of a tiger and a snake for a tail. A bringer of misfortune and illness, it was the nue that had caused the emperor’s illness, and with its death he was cured. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Heavy_Gunners \n\nThese gunners carry immensely powerful, heavy pieces. The large calibre bullets fired from the oversized barrels will not only kill, but can also do damage to buildings. The guns are expensive and weighty; they are in short supply as are men strong enough to use them. As a result, the unit is numerically rather small, and this will count against them in close combat. The musketeers also move relatively slowly, leaving them vulnerable to cavalry attacks. \n\nEuropean “harquebuses” of the period came in many different sizes and calibres. Standardisation was almost unknown, and some of the huge bullets fired look ridiculously large to modern eyes. However, when Portuguese traders were blown off course and arrived in Japan, the Shimazu were quick to recognise the military worth of the two guns aboard the vessel. Their master weaponsmith was a master sword maker but, sadly, this did not help him copy the European guns. Eventually a deal was done: the smith got lessons in gun making from a second group of Portuguese traders; they got the smith’s daughter. A harsh bargain for harsh times, perhaps. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Matchlock_Ashigaru \n\nThe role of matchlock ashigaru is to unleash massed gun volleys upon the enemy, keeping them confused and, in the process, weakening them enough for a frontline charge. Once fired, the matchlock guns take a long time to reload, but their range, noise, and effect on enemy morale more than compensates for this lack of speed. The smoke and fire they produce can be very disorientating to enemies, particularly when targets are dropping all around. When the main fighting starts matchlock gunners should retreat behind melee troops. They do not have the training to fight in close combat and have no defence against a cavalry charge.\n\nHistorically, it was considered a great honour for any samurai to fire the first shot of a battle. The honour traditionally fell to the samurai archers, who opened most battles with an archery duel. However, the Sengoku Jidai introduced the European arquebus, guns which required much less skill to use than the bow. The archery duel became an exchange of gunfire and, as the guns were largely carried by ashigaru, the first shots were now fired by simple foot soldiers. The ashigaru gunners were led by a teppo ko gashira, a man chosen for his skill and courage, who ordered when to load, when to fire and signalled his superiors when the enemy had been weakened enough for a charge to be attempted. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Matchlock_Samurai \n\nMatchlock samurai fire volleys into enemy ranks to disorientate and weaken them enough so a charge cannot be effectively resisted, as it can be devastating to see comrades falling in a hail of bullets. The matchlock samurai fight in a similar way to the ashigaru, but are much more accurate in their fire.\n\nOnce fired, reloading guns is a slow business, and it can leave the unit vulnerable to cavalry attacks. The matchlock samurai should retreat behind friendly melee troops once the real fighting begins.\n\nHistorically, the majority of arquebuses were used by ashigaru troops. The guns were reasonably simple to use and arming the ashigaru with them was quicker and cheaper than training archers. It also freed up the samurai to participate in combat using weapons that required more skill, such as the katana or bow. The samurai who did use arquebuses were expected to use their better skills to take out single, important enemies rather than completely rely on volleys like the ashigaru. This distinction between fighting styles for the same weapon could also be seen with the bow and the spear, where the emphasis for the samurai was to pick targets and engage them in matched single combat. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Missile_Matchlock_Warrior_Monks \n\nA warrior of unshakable faith can be very dangerous: he has no fear of death because his cause is righteous and he serves a higher purpose. Warrior monks are men of such faith, with strong morale, and they are especially dangerous when armed with matchlock guns.\n\nThe guns are fired in volley and, when combined with the monk’s accuracy in aiming, have a devastating effect on any enemy. The matchlock warrior monks must be wary of cavalry attacks, as slow reloading times can leave them vulnerable in melee.\n\nDuring the Sengoku Jidai, warrior monks were a threat to the ruling samurai. Individuals did not have to be ordained to become warrior monks: they simply had to have the right level of fanatical devotion to fight for their beliefs. Oda Nobunaga, in his mission to unify Japan, fought long and hard against the warrior monk sects and, in 1570 at the battle of Ishiyami Honganji, his army was left reeling by their powerful arquebus volleys.\n\nWarrior monks became well known for their expertise in firearms, the Negoroji sect in particular. This was due to their early adoption of European weapons and regular competitive training in using them. In fact, some devoted more time to practicing with their guns than to their religious studies! True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Spear_Bulletproof_Samurai \n\nHeavily armoured and highly trained, these spearmen are able to withstand enemy musketry and keep going forwards. Their heavy armour can keep out many bullets, but it makes them slow moving. However, their strength and offensive spirit more than makes up for that shortcoming: they really can charge musketeers with a good chance of success. Their spears also make them a formidable force against cavalrymen. \n\nSamurai armour was, and is, renowned for its beauty and intricate designs but, as warfare changed following the introduction of muskets, beautiful workmanship had to evolve. Leather layers in armour had been enough to protect against arrows, but bullets demanded new standards for armour. Like European armourers, Japanese smiths would prove their wares by firing bullets at it. Original pieces of the period still retain the “proof” dents from successfully keeping out a bullet. A sensible warrior bought or used armour only if it had such damage! True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Spear_Extra_Long_Yari_Ashigaru \n\nThese ashigaru are an exceptionally useful anti-cavalry force, and strong defensively as long as their morale holds up. However, their long spears can count against them at times. Against sword-armed infantry in close combat, the length of the spears is next to useless. They are also vulnerable to missile attacks, like many other specialist troops. Men, no matter how trained or equipped, all die in the same way when perforated by arrows or bullets. \n\nAll clans experimented with weapons and tactics: spear length varied enormously, with some Oda units essentially carrying pikes, spears up to 5m long. It is fascinating to speculate what might have happened to Japanese warfare if the Sengoku Jidai had not ended when it did. Would the samurai have evolved a style of battle that paralleled the “pike and shot” tactics of 17th Century Europe? European pikemen, in theory, protected the musketeers who shot at the enemy but had ridiculously long reloading times. Often, and partly as a result of the desultory rates of gunfire, European battles became giant shoving matches as the pikemen moved forwards to physically push their enemies off the field. Men were so crammed together that it was difficult for them to fight as individuals in any way. Would the Japanese have gone the same way, or would samurai honour and individualistic glory have triumphed? True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Spear_Yari_Ashigaru \n\nThe spear is a remarkably flexible weapon in tactical terms. It can be used in single or mass combat and is equally effective for attack and defence. Yari ashigaru are armed with very long spears that are almost pikes, and can be used to lead a battle charge into battle or act as pincers. They are well-drilled, but lack the skill and dedication of samurai. Yari ashigaru are most effective when they work together as a block, forming a wall of spears. Any cavalry that charges into a well-managed formation of yari ashigaru will be wiped out as the horses and riders are skewered.\n\nBy the Sengoku Jidai, the yari was the most common weapon issued to ashigaru and samurai, although they used different fighting techniques and tactics. The ashigaru would use spears in formation, particularly against cavalry charges. Each would take a kneeling position and form a line, laying their spears on the ground in front of them. As the charge grew nearer they would be ordered to raise their spears and, at the last moment, thrust the spears upwards into the belly of the horse. Once a spear was in a target it was to be held firmly in place until otherwise ordered. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Spear_Yari_Hero Heavily armoured, these skilled spearmen know no fear; as defensive troops they are second to none, ideal for defending key positions in a castle. Their weapon gives them the upper hand against enemy cavalry and makes them a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield. However, it does leave them vulnerable to flanking manoeuvres and larger enemy units, particularly skilled swordsmen, could overwhelm this small group of warriors.\n\nJapan itself owes its creation to the tip of a spear: Izanagi no Mikoto and Izanami no Mikoto dipped Amanonuboko, the “Heavenly Jewelled Spear”, into the sea and, when they removed it, the first drip to leave its point formed the island Onogoro. It was here that the gods made their home and produced their first child following an unsuccessful wedding ceremony in which Izanami spoke out of turn. The deformed child was set adrift, and the couple re-consecrated their vows. Izanami then gave birth to eight children, who became the islands of Japan. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Spear_Yari_Samurai \n\nYari samurai are extremely adaptable in battle. Spears can be used at the charge, while in defence they form an almost impenetrable wall against cavalry. The length of spears makes them especially effective against mounted troops, where they can pierce the breast of the horse or skewer a rider. In melee, yari samurai are skilled warriors that perform well against all but the best infantry troops. However, they have no defence against missile attacks, lacking the mobility to move quickly out of range.\n\nThe yari became increasingly popular among generals as the Sengoku Jidai progressed: ashigaru as well as samurai warriors were armed with it, though each used it very differently. Ashigaru yari were much longer, as they were used to create a wall of spears, and even then the length varied from clan to clan. For the samurai, the yari became used as they realised that the bow made them vulnerable when in close combat. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Special_Fire_Bomb_Throwers \n\nFire bombs are made from earthenware horoku pots that are filled with gunpowder and then lit by a fuse. As the fuse burns down, the thrower swings the bomb by an attached rope and then releases it at the right moment, hopefully hurling it at the enemy to explode. The resulting blast can be terrible as the pot shatters, and has a damaging effect on enemy morale too. These grenades can be used against enemy walls in sieges, but are just as effective when used as fire support in a field battle. These men are not experts in close combat, and need protecting from the enemy. They do not have the numbers to survive for long in melee.\n\nJapan’s first introduction to gunpowder happened during the Mongol invasion of 1274. At this time, the samurai were still fighting according to strict tradition: they would find a worthy opponent, declare their notable heritage and achievements, and then begin a set of single combats. The Mongols, however, fought very differently, and when the samurai met them at Hakata Bay, they were greeted with a barrage of dishonourable but effective explosive bombs. Despite this initial experience of gunpowder’s usefulness and effects, the samurai would not properly adopt it for another 300 years. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Special_Kisho_Ninjas \n\nKisho ninja have mastered the art of invisibility, making them highly effective assassins who possess terrifying supernatural powers! In fact, their skills are actually the product of a lifetime of intensive training, cunning and the clever use of misdirection. The ability to move about largely unseen on the battlefield means they appear from nowhere, launch an assault on an enemy general and then vanish before they are caught or killed.\n\nIn addition to a small number of deadly fire bombs, they are armed with blinding grenades to disorientate an enemy for a short time, reducing their fighting ability. To remain as stealthy as possible kisho ninja operate in small numbers, so must avoid prolonged close combat because they cannot afford to take many casualties.\n\nHistorically, ninja were rarely used on the battlefield itself, although their fighting prowess was certainly equal to the challenge. Instead, a daimyo would hire them to undertake espionage missions or assassinate rivals. The ninja’s role was to carry out tasks that others could not honourably accomplish, as they were not constrained by bushido, the code that governed samurai behaviour. During sieges, ninja would infiltrate an enemy’s castle in disguise, gather intelligence and cause confusion by, for example, setting fires - leading the enemy to assume he had turncoats within his walls. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Sword_Katana_Ashigaru \n\nThese foot soldiers carry katana: swords renowned for their razor sharpness and cutting power. The ashigaru form part of the main battle line and, once enemy infantry has been sufficiently weakened by missile troops, the ashigaru charge in and engage in melee.\n\nThough ashigaru lack the swordsmanship of samurai, the sharp katana does most of the work. Once it cuts into an enemy, momentum carries it through, carving bone and flesh like silk. Because ashigaru don’t have the same social standing as samurai, their morale isn’t as good, and they are weak against cavalry charges or missile attacks.\n\nIn 1588, the Japanese regent Toyotomi Hideyoshi banned all peasants from owning arms to remove the threat of peasant revolts and to hopefully limit other daimyo’s attempts to seize power. This measure also meant the existing ashigaru rose in stature. Once they had been little more than trained peasantry who split their time between farming and soldiering, but now they were professional soldiers. While of a lower class than the samurai, they could fight in battle without worrying how their crops were faring. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Sword_Katana_Hero This small group of skilled swordsmen know this and each has devoted himself to the perfection of his art. Their unbreakable morale and skill is legendary and inspirational. The controlled frenzy of katana sensei also adds to their ferocity, increasing their speed and power when fighting. However, their small numbers do mean they are more vulnerable to being outnumbered by an enemy unit.\n\nEmbracing the way of the warrior is the path to enlightenment. Miyamoto Musashi (1584 - 1645) was one of Japan’s most famous swordsmen. His exploits quickly became legendary and it is difficult to divide fact from fiction, especially as he recorded many of his own exploits in “The Book of Five Rings”. This text was devoted to the strategy and the realities of battle but also chronicled many of Miyamoto’s duels from his own perspective.\n\nPerhaps his most famous adversaries were the men of the Yoshioka School. After defeating the school’s master, Yoshioka Seijuro, with a single blow, Musashi was challenged by Seijuro’s brother, Denshichiro. Musashi killed Denshichiro with his own sword. After these killings, the Yoshioka planned to ambush the upstart with over 100 men. Unfortunately for them, Musashi did not follow the plan, and he killed the last remaining member of the Yoshioka family and forced their men to retreat. Following this utter humiliation the famous sword school closed its doors forever. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Sword_Katana_Samurai \n\nKatana samurai are an elite heavy infantry unit. They form part of the main line in battle, charging forward to engage the enemy in close combat. The katana is a very effective melee weapon. Its incredibly sharp blade easily cuts through enemies, while the flat deflects enemy blows.\n\nA samurai goes into battle accepting death and fearing little, which gives him excellent morale. Accepting death and foolishly risking your life for no purpose are not the same thing, and katana samurai must be wary of threats from cavalry and missile troops, against which they have little defence.\n\nThe katana sword is the weapon most readily associated with the samurai. Its elegant, curved single blade is created from many folded layers of high carbon steel (that can take a sharp edge but is brittle), and low carbon steel (that is tough but relatively soft and prone to blunting). By combining both metals, the katana manages to be tough and retain a razor sharp edge.\n\nHistorically, the katana was made to be used as a two-handed sword, the sharp edge of the blade would cut into an enemy and the momentum of the samurai’s blow would carry it through their body, often killing in one deft movement. It was a sword used for cutting rather than thrusting. A shield was not necessary, as the sword could be used to parry and deflect an enemy’s strikes using the flat of the blade, without fear of it breaking. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Sword_Katana_Wako \n\nWako are men who have forsaken the code of bushido for a life of plunder and piracy. They have no qualms, though, about using samurai weapons, and these men carry the katana, the razor-sharp sword of the samurai. They can be part of a battle line and are fearsome warriors in melee, especially against spearmen. However, they are weaker against cavalry and missile units, and should stay out of range of enemy archers.\n\nHistorically, ‘wako’ was the name given to the Japanese pirates who raided the Chinese and Korean coasts. Parallels can be drawn between the sengoku daimyos and the pirate ‘sea lords’. Both sets of leaders took their chances in a power vacuum and seized large areas as their fiefdoms, ruling them through their own clan structures. The Murakami were one of the most powerful wako clans and would extort tolls from passing ships for ‘protection’. Later, the Murakami would ally with the Mori, in the process making the Mori a formidable naval power in their own right. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Sword_Nodachi_Samurai These samurai are armed with the no-dachi. These are extremely heavy, long swords that can only be wielded by the strongest and most skilled of men. These swords can do a lot of damage and the no-dachi samurai use them for devastating charges into infantry, where they can often break through defensive lines. Only very brave men charge into the enemy on foot, but no-dachi samurai are known for their high morale. They are shock troops and not particularly effective when defending, especially against cavalry and missile troops.\n\nHistorically, the no-dachi was a much longer and heavier sword than the more famous katana. It required considerable strength to lift and swing, and the sheer size of it stopped any use in confined spaces. Instead, it was used in open field battles or against mounted warriors. In peaceful times it could be worn to display status but, rather than being hung from the waist like a tachi or katana, this mighty sword was slung across the shoulder. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Sword_Samurai_Retainers \n\nSamurai retainers are elite expert swordsmen who remain behind to protect their master’s castle from enemy attacks while the daimyo is on campaign. The retainers go into battle accepting death and fearing little, which gives them excellent morale. Accepting death is not the same thing as foolishly throwing away your life, so samurai retainers must be wary of threats from cavalry and missile troops against which they have little defence.\n\nThe katana is the weapon most readily associated with all samurai. Its elegant, curved single blade is created from high carbon steel, which is sharp but brittle, and low carbon steel, which is tough and flexible but not able to hold an edge. By cunningly combining both metals, the katana manages to be tough whilst retaining its sharp edge. The katana was made to be used as a two-handed sword; the sharp edge of the blade would cut into an enemy and the momentum of a blow would carry it through the body, often killing in one deft movement. It was a sword used for cutting rather than thrusting, and doubled as a shield because the samurai could parry and deflect enemy attacks with the flat of the blade. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Inf_Sword_Wako_Raiders \n\nThese wako raiders are lightly armed and wear little armour, which contributes to their ability to move with stealth and remain hidden. Indeed, wako raiders can hide almost anywhere: an enemy may end up convinced that they can hide behind every rice stalk! They can also move without revealing their position, making them useful for tactical surprises. Best of all, for a commander, before the battle they can actually be positioned outside the army’s normal deployment area. That they also have a good close attack, and good morale makes them even more useful as a weapon. \n\nAs far as the Chinese were concerned, all the Japanese were pirates, or in league with pirates. It wasn’t surprising that the Chinese were angered and frustrated. The shogunate refused to address the problem, and the local lords were cheerfully profiting from piracy. The Chinese banned trade with Japan, but to no effect. Even punitive attacks by the Chinese failed to solve the problem of piracy. The Japanese had no real wish to rein in their pirates, for how else would they get stolen Chinese goods so cheaply? True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Light_Ship_Bow_Ship \n\nThe ship’s purpose is to stay on the edges of a fleet, quickly moving to key points to provide fire wherever necessary. Its speed means it can avoid being boarded by soldiers from heavier, more powerful ships while harassing them with arrows. The crew of this vessel is not expected to launch boarding attacks, only soften up a target for other friendly ships. They also have the ability to fire flaming arrows for a short period of time, which are much more devastating than standard arrows. Ironically, the archers are also vulnerable to missile fire as the upper deck of the ship has no protection.\n\nDuring the Sengoku Jidai, ships were mostly made from wood, occasionally augmented by thick bamboo or iron plates. This made them inflammable, and it was quite common to set fire to a vessel prior to boarding it. Archers would use fire arrows, or bombs would be thrown, all in the interests of making life as difficult as possible for the defenders. However, boarding actions were the most important tactic of war at sea, and everything else was subordinated to them. This was just as well, as incendiary weapons lacked the power of cannons, which were hardly common. Japanese naval warfare never went the same way as European naval tactics, with ships becoming gun platforms and fighting at a distance for the most part. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Light_Ship_Fire_Bomb_Ship \n\nFire bombs are ceramic pots filled with gunpowder that are swung above the head before being released. When they explode, hopefully on impact, they burn enemies and spread flames in every direction. As even the heaviest of ships are largely of wooden construction, they are very vulnerable to fire. The fire bombs have a short range, so fire bomb ships need to get in close, attack, and then use their speed to escape before they are counter-attacked and boarded. Missile fire from other vessels can also be a threat, as there is no protection for the crew on the upper deck. These ships also have the ability to deploy naval mines outside of the deployment zone prior to the start of a battle. However, these mines are indiscriminate, and if blundered into, can be just as deadly to your own ships as well as the enemy! \n\nDuring the Sengoku Jidai, incendiary weapons such as fire arrows and bombs were used in naval battles. The bombs would be flung by hand using a rope or net sling or launched by catapults mounted on the deck. The Murakami clan managed to set fire to one of Oda Nobunaga’s ships in such a way at the first battle of Kizugawaguchi in 1576. One of the clan, Murakami Takeyoshi, was a pirate who had elevated himself into a lord through his naval expertise. His experience was so great that both the Oda and their enemies, the Mori, sought his aid in battle. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Light_Ship_Matchlock_Ship \n\nA matchlock ship carries a small detachment of musket-armed soldiers, certainly not enough to fend off a boarding action. Further, because the upper deck has no cover, they are exposed to missile attacks. However, this lack of fighting manpower and protection also makes the ship very light and fast. The matchlock troops can fire at an enemy crew or at the side of an enemy ship in an attempt to hole it. If a heavy enemy vessel gets too close and a boarding attack looks likely, a matchlock ship can use speed to move out of trouble and continue its harassing attacks.\n\nHistorically, Japanese naval tactics used missile attacks to thin out enemy numbers before a boarding action. Once the enemy were reduced, an attack would be launched and a battle fought hand-to-hand just as if everyone was ashore. The arrival of firearms in the Sengoku Jidai did not change these tactics. Instead, the arquebus simply replaced the bow. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Light_Ship_Siege_Tower_Ship These vessels are modified medium ships with a raised fighting platform in the middle of the deck, effectively making them floating siege towers. In theory, the siege tower bune moves close to an enemy ship where the crew is already fighting against boarders, and then rains death down upon them. The vessel is vulnerable to fire and cannon attacks, but it can use its speed to take evasive action when boarding attacks are made against it.\n\nIn 1590, Toyotomi Hideyoshi used tower bunes during his siege at Shimoda, a coastal fortress controlled by his rivals, the Hojo. Although it was unusual to lay siege to a castle from the sea, the attack used the same tactics as a land assault. The castle’s supplies were cut off, and Hideyoshi waited for starvation to force the Hojo to submit. Though Hideyoshi had 14,000 men, the 600 Hojo warriors held out for four months! True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Medium_Ship_Medium_Bune \n\nMedium or “seki” bunes are likely to be the main element of any clan navy, thanks to their size and general “handiness”. They have reasonably strong hulls and carry enough crew to give them the ability to support bigger ships. They also retain enough speed and manoeuvrability to combat the lighter, faster ships. This puts them somewhere between the o ataka bune and kobaya in terms of their uses and deployment. Because they are not specialised, medium bunes will not be able to match speeds with lighter ships or the strength of heavy vessels, but they have versatility on their side.\n\nHistorically, seki bunes hulls resembled smaller versions of the o ataka bunes, with the addition of a pointed bow. They also lacked the o ataka’s deck house. Ataka bunes were extremely powerful but their size made them sluggish and unresponsive. The seki bunes were a response to this, and managed to combine speed with strength, making them flexible fleet units for any sea-going general. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Medium_Ship_Sengoku_Bune \n\nThe sengoku bune is distinguished from other Japanese ships by its sail. This sail is carried in addition to the oarsmen on board, and sailing with the wind allows it to chase down enemy ships. The sengoku bune has few crew compared to similar sized ships, so it is best used to attack smaller, weaker ships rather than those in its own weight category.\n\nHistorically, sengoku bunes were large junk-style ships used to carry rice and sake. In 1609, converted sengoku bunes were used in the Shimazu raid on the independent kingdom of Ryukyu. These were joined in the attack by ataka bunes, warships that resembled large floating castles. The combination together was an interesting attempt to advance the art of sea warfare. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Medium_Ship_Wako_Medium_Bune \n\nWako pirates are a constant threat to all. Their main targets are trade ships, but these medium bunes and their wako crews are capable of battle against warships as well. They have a reasonably strong hull and enough fighting men on board to overpower bigger ships, all the while retaining the manoeuvrability needed against lighter, faster vessels. Medium bunes are good all-rounders and are not the equal of specialised vessels, but they have versatility to spare!\n\nThe medium, or seki, bune was smaller than an ataka bune and larger than the kobaya. The design combined strength with speed. In appearance the hull resembled a smaller version of the ataka bune, but with the addition of a pointed bow. The seki bune lacked a deck house. The design was certainly good enough to be adopted by the wako, men who had an eye to the practical business of turning a profit on every voyage. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Placeholder PLACEHOLDER True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Trade_Ship_Red_Seal_Ship \n\nA red seal ship is built for “blue water” sailing, making it hardier than most trade vessels, which are restricted to coastal routes. It can carry large cargoes, travel long distances and therefore has more opportunities for profitable trading. Unfortunately, this also makes it a tempting target for others, such as the wako pirates. A red seal ship’s structural strength improves its chances of survival in such an attack, but it is still vulnerable.\n\nA ship in possession of a red-sealed patent was sanctioned by the shogun himself, and allowed it to trade freely. The red seal permit system originated toward the end of the 16th century under Toyotomi Hideyoshi. It was an effort to combat Japanese piracy and also control foreign trade by sanctioning merchants and where they traded. Those chosen by Toyotomi Hideyoshi could travel overseas and were regarded as official ships under his personal protection. This not only warned off pirates, but also made it clear to foreigners that it was diplomatic to look after merchants! True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Trade_Ship_Trade_Ship \n\nAll samurai consider trade and the associated money-grubbing to be vulgar. It is, quite rightly, beneath them, even though merchants often end up rather wealthy! Trade ships are seen as a necessary evil, importing valuable weapons from overseas such as cannon and firelocks. Trade ships are unarmed vessels and should run away at the first sign of trouble: this wise tactic is their only defence! They are constantly threatened by enemy clans blockading supply lines, and by the wako pirates who infest the seas around Japan!\n\nHistorically, trade between Korea and Japan was usually hampered by piracy. The Japanese wako pirates would routinely raid Korean and Chinese coasts, while the Japanese authorities seemed powerless to stop them. China responded by declaring war on the pirates, ambushing them and burning their ships. The Chinese also attacked known pirate bases and beheaded those they captured. When Toyotomi Hideyoshi came into power he banned the owning of arms by all the peasantry, which greatly reduced the power of the wako. However, the same pirates who had just been suppressed were then recruited for their naval expertise: Hideyoshi needed them for his ill-fated invasion of Korea in 1592. True
unit_description_texts_long_description_text_Trade_Ship_Wako_Trade_Ship \n\nThis is a trade ship in name only. In truth, it is used to close with unsuspecting merchants, allowing the crew to achieve a measure of surprise. Most merchants will be on guard against potential attacks, so the wako resort to such stratagems. Against large ships, however, they lack the firepower for battle, and the manoeuvrability to escape!\n\nHistorically, the wako plagued the Koreans and Chinese between the 13th and 16th century. There would be periods of inactivity, usually after a devastating attack on the pirates’ base had been a salutary lesson, but the wako would always be back. There was simply too much wealth to be stolen! In 1587, Toyotomi Hideyoshi decreed that peasants were not allowed to carry weapons, and in turn the wako found it harder to obtain arms. However, many were subsequently recruited by clans who needed their naval expertise. True
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