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”.

Politico: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Politico Review

Politico turns every vote into a tense little showdown. Smart deals matter, but luck can wobble the game. I enjoyed it with friends, though a few swings felt a bit rude.

Brew: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Brew Review

Brew mixes clever dice play, woodland charm, and tight choices. Luck can cause a few groans, but smart planning usually wins. It shines with three players and keeps feeling fresh after several games.

Skyward: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Skyward Review

Skyward rewards smart timing, bold choices, and just enough table talk to make friends nervous. Its factions add flavor, while the clean rules hide a tasty pile of tough decisions.

Drive: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Drive Review

Drive turns every race into a tight tussle of smart choices, cheeky risks, and just enough luck to keep things lively. My friends and I found plenty to enjoy, even when one bad turn sent us grumbling.

Celtic: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Celtic Review

Celtic offers clever tile play, light rivalry, and enough luck to keep plans wobbly without wrecking them. It rewards smart choices, though the final scores can feel a bit tight.

Amazons: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Amazons Review

Amazons turned our quiet game night into a tense battle of shrinking space. Every arrow mattered, luck stayed away, and one careless move left me boxed in like a sad chess sandwich.

Torres - Torres, HUCH! & friends/IDW Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4.5/5

Torres Review

In my journey with Torres, I discovered a game where strategic depth meets engaging player interaction. The fair scoring system rewards thoughtful planning, making every game a thrilling yet balanced experience worth diving into repeatedly.

Take 5: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Take 5 Review

Take 5 turns simplicity into an art form, masterfully balancing luck with strategy. Its scoring system and player interactions engage without overcomplicating, making it a staple for game nights.

Churchill: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Churchill Review

Churchill impresses with its blend of strategy, history, and diplomacy. Although lengthy, it's a captivating ride through WWII. However, the complex mechanics may daunt beginners. Definitely a hit for history buffs and strategy fans!

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!