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”.

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.

Rating: 4.8/5

Review

Math Playground Games brings math to the table in a way that even my number-phobic friend enjoyed. Easy rules, quick laughs, and fair play—just watch out if you always lose your pencil. Great for families and classrooms!

Sultan: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Sultan Review

If you like games full of sneaky deals, shouting, and mild threats of friendship-ending betrayal, Sultan's your jam. Great art, clever moves, but the dice can be mean. Still, we had a blast—and maybe a grudge or two.

Evergreen: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Evergreen Review

Evergreen took our table by storm with its lush looks and clever play. It rewards careful planning, not lucky dice rolls. If you love peaceful, strategic games where your trees do the talking, this one's a breath of fresh air!

Flourish: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Flourish Review

Flourish mixes gorgeous art with clever card play and just enough strategy to keep things interesting. It’s light, friendly, and easy to learn—perfect for families, garden fans, or anyone who wants a chill game night with friends.

ZigZag: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

ZigZag Review

Zigzag brings zippy turns and laughs to the table. It’s easy to learn, colorful, and keeps everyone guessing. Just don’t expect to outsmart luck every round—or your smug cousin Dave, who always grabs victory at the last second.

Cowabunga: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

Cowabunga Review

Cowabunga brings quick laughs, wild cards, and just enough chaos to keep everyone guessing. It’s pure party energy—great for families or friends, but strategy lovers should look elsewhere. Expect mooing, groaning, and lots of blaming the dice.

Zig-Zag: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Zig-Zag Review

Zig-Zag kept my friends arguing (nicely!) all night. The rules are easy, but winning takes brains, not luck. A great pick if you love a good challenge and don’t mind a little friendly sabotage.