Best Strategic Board Games of 2024: Top 15 Reviewed
Discover the world of strategic board games where tactics, planning, and a touch of luck reign supreme. We handpicked our favorites based on how well they test your wits, how much fun we had playing with friends, and how often we argued over the rules. Each game brings unique challenges and strategies to the table, whether you’re building empires, farming, or saving the world from extinction. Get ready to dive deep into these 15 amazing strategic board games that promise hours of brain-teasing fun. So, gather your friends and prepare for some serious thinking and laughter!
On this list:
15 Catan
It’s a classic strategic board game that we can play over and over without getting bored. Settlers of Catan really brings out the inner trader in us. We love how you have to plan our roads, settlements, and cities while dealing with those pesky robber on the island. Trading sheep for wood never sounded so exciting until we got into the Catan world. The fun is in the bartering and the challenge of optimizing resources.
14 Risk
Risk is one of those strategic board games where your best friend can become your worst enemy in a matter of dice rolls. Conquering the world has never been so satisfying and infuriating at the same time. Our friend once stormed through Asia and left us all in ruins—never trust anyone in Risk! It’s all about careful planning and sometimes a bit of luck with the dice. Perfect for long jam sessions.
13 7 Wonders
7 Wonders is such a great strategic board game, it had Batman wondering why he even needs a Bat-computer. Drafting cards, building wonders, and strategizing through three ages is just epic. The replay value is phenomenal because no two games are exactly the same. Plus, it’s one of those rare games where you can play with seven people without it devolving into chaos.
12 Pandemic
We became heroes battling diseases while still in our pajamas. Pandemic gets everyone on the edge of their seat, whispering plans like seasoned doctors with stethoscopes. It’s one of our favorite co-op games, as it forces the group to work together to win. One wrong move, and you could end up causing an outbreak that spreads like wildfire. Definitely a strategic board game worthy of attention.
11 Ticket to Ride
Ticket to Ride is all about planning routes for trains, and every session feels like a mini-vacation. With our frequent bickering over who gets to build the best route, it’s no wonder we’re avid fans. The strategy lies in calculating the best paths and blocking opponents strategically, which leads to some thrilling gameplay. It’s a fantastic gateway for new players into strategic board games.
10 Agricola
If you ever wanted to know what it’s like to be a 17th-century farmer, Agricola is your game. We found ourselves immersed in agricultural expansion, cursing under our breath when our sheep went astray. The game requires careful planning and resource management, making it a top pick for strategic board games enthusiasts. It’s a bit like Farmville, but with more drama and decision-making.
9 Carcassonne
Building medieval landscapes tile by tile brings out the hidden architect in us. Carcassonne is a leisurely yet strategic board game that hooks us with its simplicity and depth. As we place our meeples and expand our territories, the satisfaction comes from watching the beautiful map come to life. It’s easy to learn but offers surprising layers of strategy. A definite favorite among our friends.
8 Power Grid
Power Grid is perfect for those days when you feel like pretending to be an energy mogul. We found ourselves deep in thought, trying to balance resources and expand our power network. The competition for cities and resources keeps everyone on their toes, and the economic strategies are just the cherry on the cake. It’s a challenging game that rewards careful planning and cunning tactics.
7 Dominion
Deck-building has never been as fun as in Dominion. We found ourselves strategizing to create the most efficient deck and claim victory. The variations of card combinations are endless, keeping the game fresh. It’s one of those strategic board games where you can’t rely on luck alone—a perfect fit for those who love a challenge.
6 Twilight Struggle
Step into the shoes of superpowers in this Cold War themed masterpiece. Twilight Struggle is a nail-biting strategic board game that tests your diplomatic skills. We’ve had many intense moments with it, as you try to spread influence and control key regions. It’s a deep and rewarding experience for those who love history and strategy.
5 Terra Mystica
This game has us building and expanding civilizations like never before. Terra Mystica offers a rich world of strategy where terrain and resources dictate the fate of your faction. We’ve spent countless hours devising plans to outwit each other. The depth and complexity make it a must-try for strategic board games fans.
4 Terraforming Mars
Imagine playing god on Mars—Terraforming Mars lets us do exactly that. We’ve seen friends turning redder than the planet itself as they fight for control. It’s all about strategy, resource management, and a bit of luck. Watching the planet come to life is fascinating and keeps us coming back for more.
3 Scythe
Scythe blends beautiful artwork with intense strategic gameplay. We’ve had many evenings plotting our next moves, controlling resources, and maneuvering for position. The alternate-history setting adds to the appeal. It’s intricate, engaging, and everything we want in a strategic board game. Plus, mechs are always cool.
2 Gloomhaven
If you’re looking for a strategic board game that’s epic in every sense, Gloomhaven is it. We’ve had campaigns stretching months, exploring dungeons and crafting characters’ stories. The mix of tactical combat and role-playing keeps everyone glued to the table. It’s complex, rewarding, and keeps strategic game lovers engaged with every play.
1 Chess
Chess is the ultimate strategic board game, a game that has stood the test of time for centuries. Why is it the best? Because it’s pure strategy, with endless depth and zero luck. From arranging troops to setting traps, it’s a constant battle of wits. We’ve spent so many hours lost in its tactical genius. It’s the crown jewel of strategic board games and a must-play.
