Abstract Strategy

These games focus on strategy rather than luck or a theme. They usually have minimalistic designs and rules, emphasizing skill and critical thinking. Examples include “Chess” and “Go” and “Stratego”.

Sheepshead: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

Sheepshead Review

Sheepshead is like herding cats, but with cards. Tricky to learn, but once you get it, every hand is a wild ride of strategy, shouts, and sly grins. Just watch out for your sneaky uncle’s trump cards.

Polarity: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Polarity Review

Polarity had me sweating more than a spelling bee finalist. It's all about balancing magnets and nerves. If you like a steady-hand challenge, this game's a real showstopper—just don't play after three coffees.

Demeter - Demeter, Sorry We Are French, 2020 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.3/5

Demeter Review

If you like flipping cards, scribbling dinos, and feeling clever, Demeter hits the spot. It's easy to learn, hard to master, and keeps luck in a tiny cage—just how I like it.

Sandcastles: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Sandcastles Review

Sandcastles feels like a sunny day at the beach with friends—lots of laughs, some sneaky moves, and just a sprinkle of luck. It’s quick to play, colorful, and won’t leave sand in your shoes, I promise.

Royalty: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Royalty Review

Royalty is easy to set up, fun to play, and just tricky enough to keep your brain busy. Luck does pop up sometimes, but there’s enough strategy to make every win feel earned. Not bad, not bad at all.

Impulse: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Impulse Review

Impulse surprised me—I showed up for spaceships, stayed for the sneaky combos. Every turn, plans change fast. If you like brains over dice, this game’s a blast, though first-timers might need a snack while rules get sorted.

Dreamscape: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Dreamscape Review

Dreamscape is a gorgeous puzzle game that made my brain sweat and my eyes happy. It rewards clever moves, not lucky rolls, and every play feels fresh. If you like strategy and pretty boards, it's a dream.

Siam: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Siam Review

Siam packs smart strategy and fast matches in a tiny box. No dice, no random cards—just pure skill. My friends and I loved the tense showdowns and chunky pieces. If you hate luck, this one’s for you!

Quicksand - Quicksand, Horrible Games, 2023 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 3.3/5

Quicksand Review

Quicksand throws you into fast, frantic fun with sturdy pieces and nonstop table talk. It’s perfect for casual nights, but luck can wreck your best plans—don’t expect deep strategy, just good laughs.

Limit: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Limit Review

If you want a quick game full of laughs, Limit fits the bill. Easy to learn, lively, but a bit too lucky at times—perfect with the right group.