Strategy

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

Francis Drake cover
Rating: 4.3/5

Francis Drake Review

Francis Drake makes you feel like a sneaky sea captain, racing for loot and glory. With clever planning, tense choices, and a pinch of luck, it's a swashbuckling adventure my friends wanted to play again.

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.

Opera: Box Cover Front
Rating: 4.5/5

Opera Review

Opera made me feel like a sneaky music master—no dice rolling, just pure outwitting my friends. The artwork is classy and the strategy runs deep. Great for thinkers, maybe not so much for the impatient.

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.