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”.

Money! - Money (머니), Playte, 2023 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.3/5

Money! Review

Money! offers a fun mix of strategy and player interaction. Its simple rules and engaging gameplay make it a blast for game night.

Labyrinth: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Labyrinth Review

Labyrinth combines strategic moves with an ever-changing maze. While luck plays a part, the colorful components and dynamic gameplay keep it engaging and fun every time.

StarFall: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

StarFall Review

StarFall: A game where strategy meets cosmic beauty. Easy to learn but offers deep strategic play. Gorgeous visuals pull you in, but it's the clever gameplay that keeps you coming back. Almost perfect, if not for the occasional luck factor.

Master: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Master Review

'Master' nails the perfect game night vibe! Friends and I couldn't stop playing. It's a strategic blast with just the right luck touch. Only gripe? Wished for more varied pieces. Still, it's a solid 4/5 stars for me!

Maestro: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Maestro Review

Just played 'Maestro' with the gang, and wow! From the stunning artwork to the nail-biting strategy, we were hooked! It's fair, fun, and the components are top-notch. Definitely a game night favorite. Only wish luck mattered less.

Tetris: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.8/5

Tetris Review

Played Tetris with friends, and man, it's a blast! Simple yet addictive, it's a game night staple. Just wish luck wasn't such a big player in winning. Still, it's a solid 4 out of 5 stars.

Aquarius - Aquarius, Looney Labs, 2021 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 3.8/5

Aquarius Review

Aquarius throws you into colorful chaos with matching cards, secret goals, and plenty of wild moves. Quick, silly, and perfect for giggles, but luck often calls the shots more than strategy. Great for families—strategy fans, maybe look elsewhere.

Focus: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Focus Review

Focus is classic brain-battle fun. No dice, just smart moves and sneaky steals. If you like plotting three steps ahead, this one's for you. Not for folks who blame bad rolls—here, it's all on you!

Delta: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Delta Review

Delta packs smart choices and eye-popping art into a game night hit. Luck takes a backseat—plan well or watch your victory dreams get crushed by your gloating friends.

Shazamm!: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Shazamm! Review

Shazamm! tosses two players into a magical tug of war with wild spells, bluffing, and just enough chaos. It’s quick, weird, and perfect for anyone who loves outwitting their friends—and cackling when a spell goes sideways.