Best 7 Chess Games of 2025: Top Reviewed Picks
We explore the '100 best chess games' and find top board games that freshen the classic chess vibe for newbies.
Finding the right board game can be like choosing a perfect chess move. In our search for the 7 best ‘100 best chess games’ themed board games, we focused on strategy, accessibility, and fun for players of all skill levels. We’ve gathered a mix of classic and modern games that will sharpen your mind and entertain for hours. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or new to refining your logical skills, these games offer something for everyone. So, grab your favorite snack and prepare for checkmate-level fun with our top picks from the ‘100 best chess games’ inspired collection!
On this list:
7 The Duke
We picked ‘The Duke’ for its dynamic and strategic gameplay. It’s like chess had too much coffee and decided to add a dash of unpredictability. With tiles that flip over after each move, you never know what’s coming next. This makes every game unique and full of surprises. Ideal for those who love the tactical aspect of chess but want a splash of something new. So, if you’re the kind of person who loves to adapt on the fly while having a blast, grab your trusty general and storm the board!
6 Onitama
Onitama is like chess’s minimalist cousin. It’s simple, fast, but packed with depth. Unlike chess, where you’re planning a four-year campaign, Onitama is over before you know it, yet leaves you pondering what moves you missed. The beauty is in its simplicity—only five cards guide your moves. But don’t let that fool you; it’s as deep as the strategy pool on your chess board, with unexpected twists thanks to the changing card mechanics. Easy to learn and difficult to master, it’s a game that makes you smile while scratching your head.
5 Hive
A game that skips the board but not the strategy, ‘Hive’ feels like chess’s outdoor adventure. With bug pieces that each have unique abilities, ‘Hive’ provides a fresh take on boardless strategy. The goal? Surround the enemy queen bee, naturally. The pieces may be bugs, but the gameplay is far from creepy-crawly; it’s engaging, competitive, and incredibly satisfying. A perfect choice for those who love chess but want a little more oddity in their strategy games. It’s a game that will have you buzzing for more.
4 Santorini
‘Santorini’ adds a splash of color and mythology to your typical chess game. Players build towers and attempt to get their player to the top, all while using godly powers to outsmart opponents. It’s chess with a Greek god complex. The strategy comes from balancing your building with using abilities to hinder your opponent. It’s as if chess decided to take a holiday on a sunny island. Ideal for those who like their games with a side of strategy and a sprinkle of divine intervention.
3 Blokus
Blokus offers a colorful twist on strategic board play. It’s a game where planning your space is as important as controlling it. While not chess, it’s all about edges and spatial strategy that fans of chess will enjoy. You place pieces on a board according to simple rules and try to block your opponents while expanding your area. Think Tetris meeting chess, but on a more social level! It’s great fun for families and a blast to play with friends.
2 The Duke: Reinforcements
This expansion takes ‘The Duke’ to the next level with new pieces and strategies. Perfect for those who already love ‘The Duke’, it adds new layers and opens up even more possibilities. It’s like adding extra spice to an already delicious dish. If The Duke is on your table regularly, this expansion keeps it fresh and exciting for veteran strategists. Press your attack with new warriors and change the course of your game. Because who doesn’t like a little more chaos in their chess-like games?
1 Chess
Classic chess takes the title of best board game in the ‘100 best chess games’ theme because it’s the grandfather of them all. Rich in history and strategy, chess offers the perfect blend of simplicity and depth. It’s the game that tests your wits and patience, your planning and adaptability. It’s stood the test of time as the ultimate strategic challenge. Whether you’re a grandmaster or a newbie, chess will always offer a rewarding experience, making it a staple in the world of board games.
