The Shogun drinking game is your ticket to a night full of laughs, clever strategy, and epic fun. Inspired by the legendary samurai and rich Japanese culture, it’s a creative twist on your usual party games. Plus, with “Shōgun” actress Anna Sawai snagging a Golden Globe for her stunning portrayal of Mariko, there’s no better time to celebrate the iconic series.
Whether you’re watching the show or just want to channel your inner samurai, this guide has it all—simple rules, wild variations, and tips for hosting a Shogun-themed bash. So grab your drinks, rally your friends, and let the games begin!
Table of Contents
What is the Shogun Drinking Game?
A Twist of Traditional Japanese Culture
The Shogun drinking game is inspired by Japanese culture, samurai history, and party traditions. While not a traditional Japanese drinking game, it combines elements of strategy and fun. The theme draws on the imagery of the Shogun, Japan’s military leaders, and their commanding presence, adding a competitive flair to your party.
Shōgun TV series Drinking Games
Shogun-themed games stand out for their mix of creativity, cultural appreciation, and fun challenges. Fans of the Shōgun TV series and samurai-era aesthetics love incorporating these themes into their party games. It’s a chance to channel your inner daimyo and lead your party troops into a battle of drinks and laughter.
Shōgun Show Drinking Game Rules
The Shōgun TV Show Drinking Game is the perfect way to celebrate the epic drama and rich storytelling of the series while adding a fun, interactive twist. Here’s how to play:
How to Setup Shōgun Drinking Game
- What You’ll Need:
- Streaming Disney Plus to watch Shōgun.
- Drinks of your choice (sake, cocktails, or mocktails for non-alcoholic fun).
- Optional: Small props (like a fan or a toy sword) to enhance the theme.
- The Group Roles (Optional):
Assign roles for added fun:- The Shōgun: The party host or designated leader who enforces the rules.
- Samurai: Loyal players who take on challenges.
- Ronin: The wildcard who can challenge any rule (but risks a penalty drink if overruled).
Drinking Rules for Shōgun
Take a sip, gulp, or shot based on these scenarios:
Character Actions:
- Take a sip when:
- A character bows or shows respect.
- Someone addresses the Shōgun with reverence.
- A character eats or drinks on-screen.
- Take two sips when:
- There’s a sword drawn or a dramatic fight begins.
- Someone betrays another character.
- A scene includes breathtaking Japanese scenery.
- Finish your drink when:
- A main character dies.
- An epic battle reaches its climax.
- A major twist leaves everyone speechless.
Dialogue Tropes:
- Drink when:
- Someone says “honor,” “loyalty,” or “Shōgun.”
- A non-Japanese character struggles with the language or customs.
- A character delivers a long, philosophical monologue.
- Take a shot if:
- Someone screams in anguish or anger.
- A character makes a heartfelt vow.
- A cunning political move changes the power dynamic.
Special Moments:
- Take a sip for every flashback or slow-motion scene.
- Take two sips if:
- A character gazes dramatically into the distance.
- A quiet scene is interrupted by sudden violence.
- Chug your drink if:
- A major conflict ends in a peaceful resolution.
- The Shōgun (in the show) enforces a shocking decree.
With these rules, the Shōgun drinking game will transform your viewing experience into a lively, hilarious, and unforgettable celebration of the show!
Japanese Shogun Drinking Game
The Japanese Shogun Drinking Game is a fun and creative way to bring a touch of samurai strategy and tradition to your next party. Inspired by the legendary shoguns of Japan, this game mixes cunning challenges, hilarious twists, and plenty of drinks to keep the laughs flowing.
What You’ll Need
- A selection of drinks (sake, beer, or cocktails).
- Small props: dice, cards, or a “Shogun hat” to identify the leader.
- A group of willing samurai ready for some fun.
Wild Rules for the Shogun Drinking Game
Take your Shogun drinking game to the next level with these innovative and funny twists. These variations are designed to bring laughter, chaos, and unforgettable memories to your party:
1. Samurai Duels
- Players challenge each other to a “duel” using rock-paper-scissors or a quick round of charades.
- Loser takes a drink, but the winner must make an overly dramatic samurai speech before drinking water as a reward.
2. Shogun’s Banishment
- The Shogun can “banish” a player for one round, sending them to a designated “penalty zone” (like a corner of the room).
- To rejoin the game, the banished player must complete a funny task, such as reciting a haiku or doing a dramatic ninja crawl back to their spot.
3. Honor or Dishonor
- Players must confess an embarrassing or hilarious secret to maintain their “honor.”
- If they refuse or their story doesn’t impress the group, they drink for their “dishonor.”
4. The Sake Bomb Roulette
- Line up drinks with varying levels of alcohol (from water to sake).
- Players pick a cup randomly while blindfolded and drink without knowing its contents—hoping they don’t get the strongest one!
5. Shogun’s Word Ban
- The Shogun declares one word (e.g., “drink” or “game”) forbidden for the next round.
- Anyone who slips up and says the word must take a penalty shot.
6. Ninja’s Silent Strike
- A designated “ninja” tries to sneak around the room and tag a player without being noticed.
- If caught, the ninja drinks; if successful, the tagged player drinks.
7. Bushido Quest
- Create a mini scavenger hunt with items tied to Japanese culture (chopsticks, origami, etc.).
- Players must collect the items while balancing a drink in one hand. The slowest player drinks extra.
8. Kamikaze Karaoke
- At the Shogun’s command, one player must perform a Japanese pop song or anime theme in karaoke style.
- If they fail to entertain the group, they must drink and try again!
9. Dynasty Collapse
- Every time a player loses a round, they must stack a small object (like a cup or coaster) into a “castle.”
- The player whose castle collapses drinks for their failure to defend their dynasty!
10. Shogun’s Random Orders
- The Shogun draws random dares or challenges from a bowl (e.g., “Speak in a samurai accent for one round” or “Act like a sumo wrestler for 10 seconds”).
- Failure to obey results in extra drinks.
Tips for Hosting a Shogun Drinking Game
Ideas from Reddit and TikTok
Online communities love creative drinking games. Here are some top ideas:
- Roleplay Rules: Stay in character as a samurai or daimyo, and anyone who breaks character takes a drink.
- TikTok-Inspired Challenges: Add fun penalties, such as mimicking a samurai pose or speaking in “ancient wisdom.”
How to Add Your Own Rules
- Incorporate personal inside jokes or challenges tailored to your group.
- Use props like a plastic katana for dramatic flair.
- Turn classic games like charades into samurai-themed activities.
Tips for Safe Fun
- Always drink responsibly. Consider replacing some rounds with water or non-alcoholic drinks.
- Encourage everyone to eat before and during the game to stay balanced.
- Have a designated “Daimyo” (the sober one) to oversee the party.
Enjoy a Shogun Themed Drinking Game
The Shogun drinking game is a perfect mix of fun, creativity, and strategy, offering a unique way to bond with friends. Whether you’re watching Anna Sawai’s award-winning performance or just love the samurai theme, this game is guaranteed to elevate your party.
Remember, the key to an unforgettable Shogun drinking game is creativity, laughter, and responsibility. So gather your clan, raise your glasses, and let the Shogun declare, “Kanpai!” Cheers to an epic night!