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”.

High Ground: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

High Ground Review

High Ground surprised me! The game served up clever tactics, wild shoves, and lots of laughs. If you enjoy friendly chaos and smart moves, this one's a blast—just watch your back and your pieces.

Barony: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Barony Review

Barony is the game where brains beat luck every time. Simple rules, tight strategy, and a medieval look that even my cat found fascinating—if you like smart games, Barony delivers the goods (and some ruthless moments).

boop.: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

boop. Review

boop. surprised me with clever strategy and pure cuteness. Don't let those tiny kittens fool you—this game packs real brain burn. If you love thinky games that don’t last all night, you’ll be hooked. Just don’t actually boop your friends.

Escape from Atlantis: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Atlantis Review

Atlantis is a wild ride of sharks, sea monsters, and boat-thievery. It’s not for sore losers or control freaks, but perfect for laughs and backstabbing—just don’t get too attached to your swimmers.

Vortex: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Vortex Review

Vortex is a whirlwind of wild spins, bold art, and the perfect amount of chaos for game night. Strategy fans might frown at the luck, but it's hard not to giggle when the board flips your perfect plan.

Poker cover
Rating: 4.3/5

Poker Review

Poker brings laughs, tension, and epic face-offs to any game night. While luck sometimes butts in, a good bluff and sharp mind can still win the pot. Always worth unpacking those chips with friends!

Corona: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.3/5

Corona Review

Corona's got wild moments and table talk, but if you hate luck ruining your plans, steer clear. Fast, silly and fun, but don't expect a serious strategy fest. My group laughed, groaned, then demanded a rematch.

Six: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.8/5

Six Review

Six is like chess and connect-four had a smart, portable baby. No dice, no luck—just pure, snack-friendly strategy. Great for travel, and perfect for folks who want a fair two-player challenge without getting bored.

Twixt: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Twixt Review

Twixt is the brainy game your competitive cousin always wins, but you keep wanting to play anyway. No dice, pure tactics, and plenty of chances for humble pie. Seriously, bridges have never sounded so dramatic.

Nimble - Nimble, Edition Spielwiese/Pegasus Spiele, 2018 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.5/5

Nimble Review

Nimble is a rapid-fire card game that makes my heart race and my hands sweat. It’s pure chaos in a good way, but you’ll need reflexes faster than a caffeine-fueled squirrel to win.