Best Strategy Board Games of 2025: Top 5 Picks
Board games can make or break a game night, especially when it comes to strategy! We’ve spent countless evenings shuffling cards, placing tiles, and plotting against friends to assemble the ultimate list of strategy board games for you. Picking the right game is like choosing the right cheese for your nachos: crucial for success. We looked at simplicity for newbies, depth for tacticians, and, of course, fun for everyone. Whether you’re new to strategy games or a seasoned player, our top picks promise thrilling gameplay, intense battles of wits, and unforgettable laughter. Get ready to rethink your next move!
On this list:
5 Ticket to Ride
One of the best entry-level strategy games we have ever played. It’s simple but engaging, making it perfect for those who are new to strategy gaming. The goal is to build railroad routes across the country, and the tension increases as routes swiftly mesh into each other. This game promises to tickle your strategic mind yet is easy enough that our grandma could join and win! And trust us, she often did.
4 Catan
Catan is a classic strategy game that will lure you with its island charm. Players collect resources and build settlements, cities, and roads. The strategy lies in trading and positioning; in fact, many friendships have been tested and fortified over this game. Its blend of strategy and social interplay makes it a beloved choice. Catan is perfect for a night filled with laughs, cheers, and maybe a bit of friendly rivalry.
3 7 Wonders
We love 7 Wonders for its depth and replayability. It’s a card drafting game with layers of strategy, as players develop ancient civilizations. It’s fast-paced and keeps everyone involved, even with seven players. With so many paths to victory, your brain will be buzzing with excitement trying to outwit your opponents. Be ready for head-scratching choices and lots of guffaws around the table.
2 Pandemic
Pandemic is a cooperative strategy game, where players work together to save the world from diseases. The teamwork and pressure build up as outbreaks occur, and decisions need to be made quickly. It’s a nice change from player-vs-player strategy games. The best part? You can share the glory of victory or the woes of defeat with your pals. It’s a true test of strategic thinking and cooperation.
1 Gloomhaven
Gloomhaven is the ultimate in strategy board games. This behemoth of a game offers a rich world of dungeon-crawling adventure mixed with strong strategic planning. It’s a cooperative, campaign-driven game filled with characters and items to explore. It takes time to master, but the strategic depth and evolving narrative make it the crown jewel of strategy gaming. We spent hours in its fantasy realm. Every game night was an epic saga, earning Gloomhaven the top spot on our list.
