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”.

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: 3.3/5

Aquarius Review

Aquarius is wild, fast, and full of surprises. The groovy cards lure you in, but the chaos and luck keep you laughing or yelling at your friends. Not for deep thinkers—great for folks who love friendly chaos.

Focus: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Focus Review

Focus is a pure strategy battle—no luck, just brains. The chunky pieces are super satisfying to move, and every game feels tense. If you like clever moves and fair play, Focus could be your new go-to classic.

Delta: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Delta Review

Delta offers solid strategy, eye-catching pieces, and a fun level of player scheming. Luck pops up now and then, but skill usually wins out. We laughed, plotted, and definitely played more than once. Good value for game night.

Shazamm!: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Shazamm! Review

Wizards blasting each other across a fiery bridge? Yes, please. Shazamm! mixes smart bluffing, cheeky magic, and just enough chaos to keep everyone grinning—unless you’re on fire. Great fun, a little spicy on the luck sometimes.

Target: Box Cover Front
Rating: 2.8/5

Target Review

Target brings fast-paced action and a dash of chaos to the table. It’s fun with friends, but heavy on luck. Great for laughs, not for planners. Components are simple, but hey—at least it’s quick to clean up!

M: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

M Review

If you like fast laughs and wild swings, 'm' is a riot. Strategy takes a back seat to good-natured bluffing and a little chaos. Just don’t expect to outthink the dice every time!

Cats: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

Cats Review

If you want a game full of cute cat art and hilarious chaos, Cats is a winner. Strategy? Not so much. But you'll laugh—a lot—unless your real cat sits on the board first!

Connections: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.8/5

Connections Review

Connections made me laugh, shout, and question my friends’ spelling skills. It’s sharp, social, and rewards brains—not lucky dice rolls. Only downside? If you hate teamwork, you’ll hate this even more than pineapple on pizza.