This shogi set is a solid little set for the price. I would recommend it for those starting shogi who do not want to get a more expensive set but still want the feel of the wood pieces.
Pros:
Set is affordable and has spot to store pieces, comes with 2 extra pawns, and the board has a good weight to it. Pieces are red on the promoted side providing a good visual aide for new players.
Cons:
Board is slightly smaller than regular shogi board, so larger pieces overhang squares. Overall quality of the board is suitable for playing but not great for display, the top veneer smells strongly of wood glue and has some small bubbles.
The overall board is much darker than the images on the site, but this is not a big deal, just be aware it does not look quite so similar to traditional spruce.
Font on the pieces can be a bit difficult to read with wide strokes compared to traditional kanji script, though it is still able to be understood. People moving from this set as their first set to a more traditional shogi set may at first struggle with identifying other more typical script. Some of the pieces are smudged a bit from the stamping process of the characters.
Overall I think for the price this set is wonderful, and I think it will make for a great introductory set for those looking to learn the game and then eventually purchase a carved set.
