Strategy

These games focus on planning, resource management, and decision-making. Examples include “Catan,” “Risk,” and “Twilight Struggle.”

Orient Express - Orient Express, Rio Grande Games, 2017 — front cover (image provided by the publisher) - Credit: W Eric Martin
Rating: 4/5

Orient Express Review

Orient Express serves up clever mysteries, snazzy artwork, and a good laugh or two, all while making you feel like a real detective—unless you get shown up by your little cousin. Highly recommended for clue chasers!

The Colonists: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.5/5

The Colonists Review

The Colonists is a beast of a board game—it rewards planners, not gamblers. Set aside your weekend, gather your most patient pals, and prepare for a satisfying, brain-burning empire building marathon. Bring snacks, bathroom breaks, and possibly an alibi.

Vortex: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

Vortex Review

Vortex is a whirlwind of wild spins, bold art, and the perfect amount of chaos for game night. Strategy fans might frown at the luck, but it's hard not to giggle when the board flips your perfect plan.

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!

The Wolves: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.8/5

The Wolves Review

If you want a board game that rewards clever play and sharp moves, The Wolves is it. Every turn matters, and there's just enough drama when packs clash. Warning: Wolf howling is not included, but highly encouraged.

METAL: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

METAL Review

Metal surprised me! It mixes smart planning with a bit of mischief. Real metal bits make it feel fancy, and each game feels different. Not for folks who hate thinking, but our group keeps asking for one more round!

Princess: Box Cover Front
Rating: 3.8/5

Princess Review

Princess brings laughter and color to the table with fast turns and cute art. It's simple and silly, best for casual groups, but don't expect deep strategy—luck rules here. Great for families, less so for competitive gamers.

Scum: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.3/5

Scum Review

Scum is the party game where friendships get tested and bad hands get passed around quicker than chips at my house. Every round is wild, unfair, and hilarious. Bring snacks—and a thick skin.

The Flood: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4/5

The Flood Review

From saving animals to dodging my friends’ ‘accidental’ floods, The Flood kept us laughing and scheming all night. Strategy beats luck here—mostly. Just don’t blame me if the animals get a little seasick.

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.