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”.

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.

Got It!: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Got It! Review

Got It! is a brain-tickling word game where teamwork matters more than luck. If you like clever clues and trading laughs over groans, this one’s a winner—just avoid playing with that one friend who overthinks everything.

Boxes: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Boxes Review

Boxes wastes no time with tricky rules. You grab a pen, argue over lines, and by the end you've made new rivals—er, friends. Quick, crude fun for anyone who likes to block, claim, and gloat.

Clocks: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Clocks Review

Clocks surprised me: the gears clicked, the colors popped, and the sabotage made for loud laughs. A bit of luck sneaks in, but strategy rules the day. My dog still doesn't understand the rules, though.

Volta: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Volta Review

Volta is one of those games that tricks you into thinking you’re smart, then flips the table—sometimes literally if Dan’s losing. Fast turns, cool art, and just enough chaos to keep things spicy.

Breaking Away: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Breaking Away Review

Breaking Away is a clever cycling game where smart planning beats luck. Fast turns, clear rules, and lots of laughs make it a hit—just watch out for that sneaky last-minute sprint from your friends!