Legend of the Five Rings is a collectible card game but also is a role playing game. The fantasy setting of L5R is based on feudal Japan. Each player represents a ruler of a faction vying for power over the land. Legend of the Five Rings stands out in the collectible card game market because of its strategic game play and user-driven story line.

There are 8 great clans in L5R and many minor clans. Each clan has its own strengths in the game. The story of L5R is an evolving one. The outcome from sanctioned tournaments greatly influence the next chapter in the legend. The clan that dominates in tournament play becomes pivotal in the L5R story line. This dynamic gives players a certain amount of influence when it comes to the fate of the clans. The evolving story arc is essentially in the fate of the players. It really helps to make fans vested in the game.

Players put together two decks, each with a minimum of 40 cards. There is the Dynasty deck that is comprised of personalities, regions, holdings, and events. The Fate deck contains the cards that will make up your hand. These cards include actions, followers, rings, and spells. There are also special cards that are placed to the side and not in a deck like your stronghold.

You earn gold from your stronghold and some holdings. Use gold to bring into any card into play with a gold cost. The gold cost will be noted on those cards. Spend your gold wisely. Gold does not carry over between transactions. This means if you have 4 gold to spend and have two items that cost two gold each then you can only bring one card into play. Money management is a crucial aspect in the first few rounds.

There are three ways to victory. You can win by a military victory or honor victory A military victory is declared when you annihilate your opponents. An honor victory is declared when you begin your turn with 40 honor points. You can also win by having all five rings in play. Some clans help more with battles while others earn more honor. A lot of strategy can go into building an L5R faction.

Legends of the Five Rings is layered game with many aspects. For the neophyte, it can be an intimidating game. The multi-parts of L5R do make it in enjoyable game to play. Although it takes some time to get use to the game mechanics, Legend of the Five Rings is an intriguing collectible card game.