Boardgames

Isaribi

Work the rich waters of Edo Bay, upgrade your ship and net, and make careful choices to become the wealthiest fisherman.

45
minutes

3 - 5
player(s)

Medium

Isaribi board game cover

About this board game

Isaribi is a 2014 board game for 3–5 players, played in about 45 minutes, in which fishermen work to earn a living from the abundant waters of Edo Bay.

Set during the heart of Japan’s Edo era, the game takes you back three hundred years to a thriving coastal village. Over five rounds, you will catch fish and shellfish, bring your haul to market, and build a sustainable fishing livelihood.

Every turn is shaped by a limited supply of action points. Use them carefully to gather fish, sell your catch, improve your fishing ship or net, and gain additional action points. The choices you make determine how much you can accomplish as the rounds unfold.

  • Catch a variety of fish and shellfish, including horse mackerel, shrimp, and clams.
  • Sell your catch to support your livelihood and increase your wealth.
  • Upgrade your fishing ship or net to strengthen your opportunities.
  • Use connections and borrow money carefully to help your finances.

Money can help you move your fishing operation forward, but borrowing requires careful consideration. You will need to balance immediate financial needs with the goal of bringing back enough fish throughout the game.

With five rounds to develop your livelihood, Isaribi rewards wise action-point management and thoughtful financial decisions. When the final round ends, the player who has gained the most wealth wins.