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”.

The Duke cover
Rating: 4.8/5

The Duke Review

The Duke feels like chess’s cooler cousin who actually gets invited to parties. It’s all about clever moves, chunky tiles, and zero luck—just pure head-to-head strategy. My friends got hooked, and so did I!

Matchstix: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Matchstix Review

If you want a fast and fun puzzle game that fits in your pocket, Digit does the trick. Easy rules, lots of laughs, and no broken friendships—unless someone flips the table out of pure number rage.

Ambar: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.1/5

Ambar Review

Ambar is a clever, fast-paced game where smart moves count more than luck. It’s easy to learn, tough to master, and brings out everyone’s competitive side—just watch out for those sneaky gem thieves at your table!

Fat Fish - Fat Fish, HUCH!, 2018 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 3.8/5

Fat Fish Review

Fat Fish is a wild card-slapping frenzy where fishy friends sabotage, scheme, and shout. It's fast, funny, slightly unfair, and heaps of fun—unless you hate losing to pure luck, then maybe grab a snack instead.

Lascaux: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Lascaux Review

Lascaux turns prehistoric art into a battle of wits. You’ll bluff, bid, and probably question your friendships. Simple rules, sneaky gameplay, and lovely cave art—it’s a winner, even if I did lose to my own mom.

Outpost: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.3/5

Outpost Review

Outpost is like Monopoly’s smarter cousin—less about luck, more about outbidding your noisy friends for space widgets. The game isn’t pretty, but it kept us plotting and laughing for two hours straight. Just hide it from sore losers.

Executive Decision: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Executive Decision Review

Bluff your way to riches with Executive Decision! This classic game keeps everyone guessing, yelling, and sometimes plotting revenge. Luck can sting, but if you love deal-making chaos, it's a real table hit with friends.

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.