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”.

Target: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Target Review

Target is fast, silly, and packed with surprise betrayals. It’s perfect for game night laughs, but if you crave deep strategy over chaos, you’ll want something else. I still bring it out when friends want pure fun.

M: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

M Review

If you want a game that mixes charm and head-scratching choices, 'm' is a great pick. Sure, it has a few hiccups, but you’ll laugh, squabble, and maybe even win. What else do you need?

Cats: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.3/5

Cats Review

Cats is quick, silly, and wild—just like real felines. You’ll laugh, you’ll groan, and maybe even hiss if luck isn’t on your side. Great for chaos-seekers, not for deep thinkers.

Connections: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Connections Review

Connections made my friends shout, laugh, and question my taste in music. It’s quick to learn, sparks wild debates, and feels fresh every round. Just watch out for those weird US trivia questions!

Amazons: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Amazons Review

Amazons is chess with attitude—move, block, and trap your friends until only one can wiggle free. Zero luck, pure brainpower. Bring snacks, you’ll be here a while!

Element - Element, Rather Dashing Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.5/5

Element Review

'Element' thrills with its mix of strategy and nature's powers. Easy to learn but challenging to master, it's a hit at game nights. Just when you think you've got it, Element surprises you again. A solid 4.5 stars!

Photosynthesis cover
Rating: 4.5/5

Photosynthesis Review

In Photosynthesis, strategy and nature intertwine. You'll plant and grow trees strategically to capture sunlight. Despite a slight learning curve, it offers engaging gameplay. A must-try for those who love strategy over luck.

TZAAR: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

TZAAR Review

TZAAR captivates with strategic depth, engaging piece sacrifices, and palpable player tension, offering an exhilarating battle of wits and social interaction that solidifies its place in the pantheon of abstract strategy games.

Ingenious - Ingenious, KOSMOS, 2023 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.8/5

Ingenious Review

'Ingenious' hits the sweet spot between being easy to learn and offering deep strategic play. With its high replay value and great component quality, it's a must-have in any game collection, despite its luck factor. A solid 4 out of 5 stars.

Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition Review

Railroad Ink: Deep Blue Edition shines with innovative dice-driven mechanics, fostering strategic multiplayer interaction, boosted further by its fantastic replay value through exciting expansions—a delightful challenge for friends and family alike.