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”.

Turning Point: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Turning Point Review

Turning Point throws you into a battle of wits and wild guesses. Every round brings new surprises, and it’s pure fun if you love calling friends’ bluffs. Just don’t come crying when grandma beats you… again.

Don Quixote: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Don Quixote Review

Don Quixote is a clever tile game that had my friends challenging each other for legendary glory. Quick to learn, offers good replay value, but a tad too lucky at times. Still, I’d saddle up again.

Coral: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Coral Review

Coral is a quick, clever abstract game where you stack colorful blocks to build reefs. It’s fun, fair, and surprisingly strategic, making it a great fit for anyone who loves puzzles and hates waiting forever for their turn.

Pico: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Pico Review

Pico is fast, funny, and always got my friends bickering—in a good way. Rules are clear, strategy wins (mostly), and games never drag. It's my go-to for quick laughs and a bit of sneaky card play.

Astra - Astra, Mindclash Games, 2022 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.3/5

Astra Review

Astra surprised me with its clever puzzles and zero-fuss mechanics. The art looks dreamy, and everyone at my table fought hard for constellations. Strategy beats luck here, making it a blast for both newbies and obsessive star chart doodlers.

Misty: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

Misty Review

Misty is a quick, cheerful puzzle full of sliding chaos and cheeky doodles. Not for serious planners, but perfect if your group loves playful mayhem and doesn't mind a little luck deciding the winner.

Orbit - ORBIT, Bitewing Games, 2025 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4/5

Orbit Review

Orbit brings fast-paced, spacey fun to the table with quick turns, bright artwork, and just enough chaos. It's easy to learn, plays great in groups, and always has us shouting—sometimes at asteroids, sometimes at each other.

Othello: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Othello Review

Othello looks easy, but don't let it fool you. My friends thought they had me – then I flipped the whole board at the end. Pure strategy, zero luck, and plenty of bragging rights.

Da Vinci Code: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Da Vinci Code Review

Da Vinci Code is fast, sneaky fun. My group laughed, accused, and guessed wrong a lot. The rules are simple, but luck sometimes decides it. Still, this is a great pick for quick, clever games with friends or family.

Parade: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Parade Review

Parade surprised me with its clever card play and charming art. Turns out, Alice in Wonderland isn’t just for tea parties—it's also for ruthless point-minimizing! Play smart, watch your friends squirm, and pray your parade doesn’t bite you back.