Part 45

Learn about Japan's Bushido power, Samurai bonus, and Oda Nobunaga in Civilization V. Understand their strengths and historical context.

After World War II, Japan lost its overseas possessions and was occupied by the United States, with some northern islands occupied by the USSR. The US imposed a democratic constitution, barred Japan from possessing a military, dismantled feudalism, and instituted land reform. Japan rapidly rebuilt its infrastructure and monetary system, becoming a thriving democracy and economic powerhouse, though it faced a banking collapse in the '90s due to government/business cronyism. Cautiously, Japan has begun rebuilding its military while still relying on the US for defense.

Japan's unique ability, Bushido, makes weakened riflemen (with 3 health points left) as effective as those at full health, allowing them to inflict heavy damage or defend effectively before healing.

Japan's unique units include:

• Samurai: 20% more powerful when fighting in open terrain, with a higher chance to create a Great General from an epic battle.
• Zero: Receives a bonus when engaging other fighters, similar to a normal fighter but with an added power boost.

Oda Nobunaga

Oda Nobunaga was a 16th-century Japanese warlord, known as a brilliant general, cunning politician, and early adopter of new technology. He fought and backstabbed his way to dominate nearly half of feudal Japan. His lieutenants, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu, completed the reunification of Japan after his death.

Born in 1534 AD during Japan's Warring States period, Nobunaga was the son of a wealthy government official. Upon his father's death in 1551, he inherited his title, wealth, and military vassals at age 17. Initially wild and unruly, a retainer's ritual suicide (seppuku) at his father's funeral sobered him, and he began to take his position seriously.

Over the next ten years, Nobunaga dominated Owari province through a complex series of alliances, battles, betrayals, and murders. He navigated internal Oda clan divisions, including conflicts with his brother Nobuyuki and uncle Nobutomo. He eventually gained control over Owari province's new military governor (shugo), Shiba Yoshikane, and used him to forge alliances with the Imagawa and Kira clans. Nobunaga's attempt to aid Saito Dosan against his son in Mino Province was unsuccessful.

In 1556, Nobunaga's brother Nobuyuki rebelled with the aid of Shibata Katsuie and Hayashi Hidesada. Nobunaga defeated them at the Battle of Ino but showed mercy by pardoning his brother and allies, who immediately began planning another rebellion.