Area Control

Players compete to dominate and control more areas or territories on the game board. It often involves conflict, strategy, and negotiation. Examples include “Risk” and “Smallworld”.

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.

Pirates!: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

Pirates! Review

Pirates! is a blast if you love chaos, yelling "Arr!", and plotting against your friends. Just beware—luck can turn your captain into chum. Fun, but salty for serious strategists.

Pirates - Box cover - Credit: JohnPurdue
Rating: 3.3/5

Pirates Review

Set sail for chaos! Pirates brings laughs, backstabbing, and wild luck. It’s not for sore losers, but perfect if you love unpredictable fun with friends—just don’t expect a fair fight every time.

King: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

King Review

King had us making alliances and breaking them faster than my dog knocks over my meeple pile. Fast turns, lively table talk, but luck sometimes throws a wrench in your plans. Still, it's a royal treat for game nights!

California: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

California Review

California is the sunshine-filled board game I never knew I needed. Build dream houses, grab furniture, and watch your friends fight over a golden bathtub—what more could you want? Fast, fun, and only slightly unfair. BYO sunglasses.

China: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.9/5

China Review

China is a sneaky, thinky game where your friends will outwit—and maybe out-annoy—you. It’s quick to play, easy to teach, and packed with strategic choices. The plain looks hide some really clever action.

Buccaneer: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Buccaneer Review

Buccaneer throws you into chaotic pirate mayhem. Expect wild alliances, sneaky backstabs, and tons of dice luck. It's hilarious fun with friends, but if you crave deep strategy, you might want to jump ship.

Yellowstone: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Yellowstone Review

Yellowstone brings strategy and cutthroat fun to the table—just watch out for your friends stealing your geysers! Gorgeous art and clever moves, but luck takes a back seat. Perfect for planners, maybe not for dice-chuckers.

Times: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Times Review

Times is easy to learn, quick to play, and always brings out laughs. It’s got just enough challenge to stay interesting, though a bit of luck can decide who wins. Perfect for groups who like trivia with a twist.

Politico: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Politico Review

Politico turns your living room into a buzzing parliament. With clever tactics, wild debates, and just enough chaos, it’s got fun for days—if you can handle a little political backstabbing with your snacks.