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”.

Focus: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Focus Review

Focus sucked me in with its twisty tactics and sneaky piece stacks. It’s all brains, no lucky dice rolls. Not for party animals, but perfect for folks who want a real duel of wits and planning. Solid stuff.

Delta: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Delta Review

Delta packs smart choices, cool animal meeples, and plenty of laughs into every session. The balance feels just right, with almost no luck nonsense. That insert though—yikes! Still, it’s become a regular at our game nights.

Shazamm!: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Shazamm! Review

Shazamm! throws you into a wild wizard duel where mind games matter more than your spellbook. It’s tense, flashy, and easy to pick up, though those rules will have you scratching your head at first!

Target: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

Target Review

Target is a wild disc-flinging party that had my friends howling with laughter and frustration. Fast turns, simple rules, but be warned: luck can send your perfect shot flying off the table! Great for laughs, less for strategy buffs.

M: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

M Review

‘m’ grabs you with quick setup, smart moves, and fun art. Clear rules and low luck keep everyone happy—except that one friend who always overthinks. Easy to recommend for anyone who likes fair, clever games!

Cats: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.3/5

Cats Review

Cats is a sneaky, cute game with simple rules and lots of laughs. It's heavy on luck, but still a hit for game nights if you don't take things too seriously.

Connections: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Connections Review

Connections surprised me with how quick it got laughs and heated debates going. It's easy to learn, perfect for family nights, and keeps everyone involved. Just don't expect a deep strategy game—this one's all about having fun together.

Amazons: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Amazons Review

Amazons is pure strategy in a box. It’s easy to learn, tough to master, and makes you feel smart or very silly in the same ten minutes. Worth a spot on your shelf!

Element - Element, Rather Dashing Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.5/5

Element Review

'Element' thrills with its mix of strategy and nature's powers. Easy to learn but challenging to master, it's a hit at game nights. Just when you think you've got it, Element surprises you again. A solid 4.5 stars!

Photosynthesis cover
Rating: 4.5/5

Photosynthesis Review

In Photosynthesis, strategy and nature intertwine. You'll plant and grow trees strategically to capture sunlight. Despite a slight learning curve, it offers engaging gameplay. A must-try for those who love strategy over luck.